Anal cancer
Overview
Find out about anal cancer, including common symptoms and treatments.
Symptoms
Bleeding from bottom; itching and pain around anus; small lumps; mucus discharge; bowel incontinence; frequent loose stools; ulcers; feeling of incomplete emptying.
Causes
90% caused by HPV infection. Risk factors: anal sex; age over 75; smoking; previous cervical/vaginal/vulval cancer; weakened immune system; multiple sexual partners.
Treatment
Main treatment: chemoradiation (radiotherapy + chemotherapy with 5FU and mitomycin). Surgery if small cancer, chemoradiation fails, or previous pelvic radiotherapy. Palliative care for advanced cases.
Prevention
HPV vaccination (offered to all 12-13 year olds and high-risk groups); safer sex/condoms; quitting smoking; regular screening for high-risk groups.
When to see a doctor
See GP for any symptoms, especially changes around anus. Urgent referral within 2 weeks if cancer suspected. Emergency if: large non-stop bleeding, worsening anal pain with fever.