What is anal cancer?
Anal cancer is cancer affecting the tissues of the anus. Cancer is a disease of the cells, the body’s basic building blocks. Our body constantly makes new cells to help us grow, replace worn-out tissue and heal injuries. Normally cells multiply and die in an orderly way.
When cells don’t grow, divide and die in the usual way, they sometimes form a lump called a tumour. If the cells are cancerous, they can spread through the bloodstream or lymph fluid and form another tumour at a new site. This new tumour is known as secondary cancer or metastasis.
How common is anal cancer?
Every year, about 400 people are diagnosed with anal cancer in Australia. It is more common over the age of 50 and is somewhat more common in women than in men. However, men who have sex with men have the highest incidence of any group. The number of people diagnosed with anal cancer is increasing, with three times more cases in 2011 than in 1984.
What are the risk factors for anal cancer?
About 80% of anal cancer cases are caused by a very common infection called human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can affect the surface of different areas of the body, including the anus, cervix, vagina and penis. Unless they are tested, most people will not be aware that they have HPV as it usually doesn’t cause any symptoms.