Treatment for anal cancer may not be immediately effective, but it is usually treatable when detected early. Chemotherapy and radiation are the main treatments for anal cancer, though other forms of treatment include surgery and chemotherapy alone. Patients will be regularly checked by doctors and may undergo various tests and scans. They should discuss any concerns they have with specialists to determine the most effective treatment options. Chemotherapy kills the cancer cells, while radiation destroys the healthy tissue.
If a biopsy does not show cancerous tissue, the doctor may recommend further tests to determine whether the cancer has spread. Another test, called a rectal ultrasound, can also show whether cancer has spread. This test uses a thin instrument to image the tissues in the anus. A doctor should immediately seek medical advice if you notice any changes in the area. You can also ask for regular screenings if you have a family history of cancer.
Anal cancer is diagnosed early through symptoms, and it can be detected in the lower part of the anal canal. A doctor will refer patients with these symptoms to a specialized colorectal surgeon who treats bowel disorders. This surgeon may insert a camera into the anus or rectum, known as a PR examination. An examination of the anal area may also involve the internal organs of the vagina. The doctors who perform these tests will use the results to determine whether the cancer has spread or is responding to treatment.
Anal cancer is associated with HPV infection, which is a virus that is easily spread by human contact. HPV has been linked to numerous cancers, including cervical, vulvar, penile, and throat cancer. Symptoms can also vary from one person to another. The best way to prevent anal cancer is to visit your doctor regularly and get a regular checkup. While early detection is best, if it has already spread, it’s still possible to treat.
Anal cancer is very rare and accounts for one to two percent of intestinal tract cancers. In the U.S., anal cancer occurs more often in women than men, although it is not as common as the two other types. A higher percentage of cases of anal cancer in women occurs in women and black men are more likely to develop it. The good news is that if diagnosed early, it can be successfully treated. There are several treatments available to help women and men manage their anal cancer.
