Anal Cancer

See also : Human Papillomavirus
Anal cancer is a type of cancer which arises from the anus, the distal orifice of the gastrointestinal tract. It is a distinct entity from the more common Colorectal Cancer. The etiology, risk factors, clinical progression, staging, and treatment are all different. Anal cancer is typically a squamous cell carcinoma that arises near the squamocolumnar junction. It may be keratinizing (basaloid) or non-keratinizing (cloacogenic). Other types of anal carcinoma are adenocarcinoma, lymphoma, sarcoma or melanoma. An estimated 90% (27,400) were attributable to Human Papillomavirus (HPV).

Causes

Several factors have been found to increase the risk of anal cancer, including:

• Older age. Most cases of anal cancer occur in people age 50 and older.
• Many sexual partners. Men and women who have many sexual partners over their lifetimes have a greater risk of anal cancer.
• Anal sex. Men and women who engage in anal sex have an increased risk of anal cancer.
• Smoking. Smoking cigarettes may increase your risk of anal cancer.
• Human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV infection increases your risk of several cancers, including anal cancer and cervical cancer. HPV infection is a sexually transmitted infection that can also cause genital warts.
• Drugs or conditions that suppress your immune system. People who take drugs to suppress their immune systems (immunosuppressive drugs), including people who have received organ transplants, may have an increased risk of anal cancer. HIV — the virus that causes AIDS — suppresses the immune system and increases the risk of anal cancer.

Warnings

It should be noted that self-treating Cancer (or any other chronic condition) and avoiding or delaying standard care may be resulting in worsening condition or even incurabilty of the disease.

Medical Disclaimer

This information is not meant to be substituted for medical advice. Always consult a medical professional regarding any medical problems and before undertaking any treatment or dietary changes.