The first step in diagnosing cancer near the anus is to seek medical advice. The symptoms of cancer in this area can vary. Some symptoms are less severe than others, such as pain when swallowing or bleeding when passing stools. Further tests will reveal whether the cancer is localized or has spread to the lining of the anus. A rectal ultrasound will be performed to visualize the affected tissues better. If you suspect cancer in this area, contact your doctor for a thorough physical exam. Your doctor may also offer you screening tests to help determine whether or not you have the disease.
If the cancer is detected in its early stages, treatment may include surgical removal of the tumor. In many cases, this surgery can be combined with radiation therapy. Depending on the location, surgery can also help cure some types of cancer that have returned following nonsurgical treatment. After the surgery, a colon and rectal surgeon will review the results and monitor for any new signs of the disease. Additional studies may be needed to ensure that the cancer is cured.
While many people develop cancer in the anus, the majority of cases are harmless. While the cancerous cells that are present in the anus spread to other parts of the body, benign tumors do not spread. Both types of cancer start in cells near the anal opening. Cancer in this area usually begins in the cells of the anal opening. If left untreated, the cancer cells may remain in the anus, or spread elsewhere.
The anus is a portion of the digestive tract that is formed by the last centimetre of the bowel. It is surrounded by skin that relaxes and releases solid waste matter. However, cancer near the anus will affect the tissues and organs of the anus. The anus contains a range of different types of cancer. Cloacogenic cancer, for instance, begins in the glands that make mucous.
People with a compromised immune system are at increased risk for anal cancer. This is especially true if you have several sex partners or are receptive to anal sex. Other risk factors include not wearing barrier protection during sexual intercourse, taking certain medications, and being a smoker. Smoking also increases your risk of developing cancer near the anus. The symptoms of cancer near the anus may differ from person to person. If you suspect any of the symptoms, you should consult your doctor immediately.
The risk of developing cancer near the anus is higher in people over 50. Women are slightly more likely to develop the disease than men. In the United States, 8,000 people will be diagnosed with cancer near the anus in 2019. According to the American Cancer Society, anal cancer is rare, but is becoming more common each year. It accounts for about 2% of all cancers in the intestine. Most cases of anal cancer occur in adults aged between fifty and sixty. While the disease is rare, it affects one out of every 500 people. The disease is often difficult to treat when it spreads to other areas of the body. Ultimately, it usually spreads to the liver and lungs.