Symptoms, causes, and treatments for rectal cancer, often referred to as anal cancer, explained.
In the realm of health, it's essential to be informed about various conditions that may affect us. One such condition is anal cancer, a disease that occurs in the anus, which is the end of the gastrointestinal tract.
Anal cancer shares some risk factors with other sexually transmitted infections, particularly high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) types 16 and 18. HPV is a common infection that can infect the squamous epithelium of the anal canal, especially at the transformation zone where columnar and squamous cells meet. Persistent infection with these high-risk HPV strains can lead to cellular changes, potentially resulting in anal intraepithelial neoplasia and, if untreated, invasive anal cancer.
Key sexual activity-related risk factors include receptive anal intercourse, particularly among men who have sex with men (MSM), a high lifetime number of sexual partners, a history of cervical, vulvar, or vaginal neoplasia (often HPV-related), and being HIV-positive or having other conditions causing immunosuppression. These factors significantly increase the risk of acquiring persistent HPV infection and thus anal cancer.
Additional factors correlated with sexual behavior and HPV-related anal cancer risk include smoking, social deprivation, and being a transplant recipient or on immunosuppressants. These factors may compound the effects of HPV infection.
Early detection of anal cancer is crucial, especially if it occurs in the lower part of the anal canal. If symptoms such as rectal bleeding, itching, pain, changes in bowel movements, or other unusual symptoms arise, it's important to seek medical advice promptly. A doctor will ask about symptoms, take a medical history, and carry out a physical examination. If necessary, they may refer the person to a colorectal surgeon for further tests such as a biopsy, CT, MRI, or ultrasound scan.
Treatment for anal cancer depends on factors such as the size of the tumor, cancer grade, whether it has spread, the individual's age and overall health. It may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy. Both chemotherapy and radiation therapy are treatment options for anal cancer, but they can have side effects such as soreness and blistering around the anus, skin problems, and gastrointestinal issues.
In 2019, it's expected that there will be about 8,300 new cases of anal cancer in the U.S., with around 5,530 affecting females and 2,770 affecting males. The average age of diagnosis for anal cancer is in the early 60s.
Immunotherapy, which boosts the immune system's defense against cancer, is an emerging treatment that may one day be an option for anal cancer. Awareness, screening, and HPV vaccination are important in managing these risks, particularly for individuals with a higher risk of anal cancer.
It's important to note that anal cancer is different from and less common than colorectal cancer. Most anal cancers are squamous cell carcinomas, which develop from squamous cells lining the anal canal. Around one-third of anal cancers are adenocarcinomas, which develop from glandular cells in the anus.
In conclusion, understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options for anal cancer is crucial for maintaining good health. If you fall into a high-risk group, consider discussing screening options with your doctor.
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