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.