6 Early Signs of Anal Cancer Often Mistaken For Less Serious Conditions, As Experts Warn of Surging Cases (Image Credits: iStock)
Cases of anal cancer have been rising significantly across the world, with doctors being able to identify who is at the most risk. According to experts, anal cancer - which develops in the tissues of the anus or the lining of the anal canal—has increased by 2.9 per cent for women and 1.6 per cent for men.
Anal cancers are also increasing fastest among white women over 65 years, who saw a 4.3 per cent increase in the last five years, data suggests.
Doctors say most cases of anal cancer are squamous cell carcinomas, which develop on the surface of the anal canal. The main cause of anal cancer is human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Studies have not been able to bring out the exact reasons behind this trend; however, HPV causes 90 per cent of anal cancers.
Early signs of anal cancer to watch out for:
According to the latest study, researchers analysed data from the National Cancer Institute's Surveillance, Epidemiology, and End Results database from 2017 to 2021 and found that if the growing trend continues, the incidence of anal cancer in women over age 65 would double in less than two decades.
And so, one of the best things to do to prevent it is to watch out for early symptoms. Even though anal cancer symptoms can be difficult to spot, as they often mimic more common and less serious conditions like haemorrhoids or anal fissures, doctors say many even experience no symptoms at all in the early stages.
However, a few signs you need to be careful of include:
- Bleeding from your bottom
- Itching and pain around your anus
- Small lumps around and inside your bottom
- A white discharge of mucus from your bottom
- Having problems controlling when you poop
- Need to poop often
What is anal cancer?
Also known as carcinoma of the anal canal, this cancer develops in your anus’ tissues or the lining of your anal canal. Your anal canal connects your anus to the rectum. Doctors say anal cancer can be completely treated if detected early.
There are two types of anal cancer:
- Squamous cell carcinoma
- Adenocarcinoma
Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common anal cancer type, while it is different from skin cancer that starts in the top layer of your skin.
What causes anal cancer?
While the exact cause of anal cancer is not known, there are many risk factors associated with the condition apart from HPV, which include:
Taking immunosuppressants
These medications stop your immune system from damaging healthy cells.
HIV
HIV increases your risk of anal cancer because it affects your immune system and because HIV may happen if you have unprotected anal sex.
Engaging in anal sex
Regardless of your sex, indulging in anal sex with multiple partners increases your risk for Hand therefore your risk of anal cancer.
Not taking the HPV vaccine
Some forms of HPV are common anal cancer causes.
Being age 55 and older
Doctors usually detect anal cancer in people in this age group.
Smoking
Those who smoke are more likely to develop cancer of all kinds.
Anal fistula
It is an abnormal opening that goes from your anus to the skin around your anus.
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