Anal cancers are uncommon tumors that begin in the cells that produce melanin. Although not common, anal cancers may be treatable if detected early. These cancerous cells may not respond to normal cell signals or organize properly, resulting in a tumor. Sometimes tumors may break through the layers surrounding them. Patients with anal cancer should undergo a physical examination to check for abnormalities. When a tumor is detected, it is usually easy to remove surgically.
The survival rates for anal cancer vary, depending on the stage of the disease. Stage 0 indicates a small tumor, while stage IV is indicative of a cancer that has spread to other parts of the body. Cancer staging continues to evolve, however, and doctors can more accurately assess cancer with more information. Understanding anal cancer is important, as the type of treatment a patient receives may affect the patient’s overall health and personal preferences.
A diagnosis of anal cancer should be accompanied by ongoing follow-up care. While the majority of anal cancers are successfully treated, recurrences may occur. The best way to monitor your condition is to discuss any new symptoms or concerns with your healthcare provider. Your doctor can provide you with information about your diagnosis, resources, and options to deal with the situation. In addition, you may wish to join a support group for people affected by the condition.
While the exact causes of anal cancer remain a mystery, the common risk factors include sexual intercourse, HPV infection, and HIV infection. Regular STD testing can detect exposures and determine if anal cancer screening is appropriate for your situation. Additionally, smoking and a weak immune system can increase your risk of developing the disease. And, while HPV vaccination is an excellent preventative measure, anal cancer is an unpleasant disease to have.
Radiation therapy is a form of treatment for anal cancer. It involves high-energy beams to destroy cancer cells. A large machine will position the patient on a table and direct the beams to specific areas of the body. Radiation can damage healthy tissue close to the beams, so side effects include sores on the anus and hardening of the anal canal. Radiation therapy can last five or six weeks. It is best when combined with chemotherapy to minimize side effects.
The American Cancer Society predicts that anal cancer will account for about 9,440 new cases of the disease and 6,290 deaths, mostly among women. Thankfully, anal cancer is highly treatable if detected early. If left untreated, it may spread to other areas of the body. It is not a life-threatening condition but should not be ignored. If you notice any of these symptoms, it’s time to seek medical attention. You may even have an abnormal opening in your anus that may be the early signs of anal cancer.
Researchers at the National Center for Health Statistics examined cancer death data from the 1940s to the present to examine changes in anal cancer’s incidence. They found that most anal cancers begin in the cells that line the anus. Under the mucosa are glands that produce mucus, which acts as a lubricant. Most cells above the anus are shaped like tiny columns. The cells in the middle of the anus are cubes and are referred to as transitional cells. Those below the dentate line are called flat cells.
