10 May 2019 Although anal cancer is a rare disease , its incidence has increased in recent decades. Female anal cancer shares several biological characteristics with cervical (uterine) cancer, including an association with high-risk human papillomavirus (HPV) infection. Risk factors for anal cancer The risk factors for anal cancer are history of: Anal sex Sexual intercourse with several partners Immunosuppression Cervical, vaginal or perianal intraepithelial neoplasia Genital warts Sexually transmitted diseases History of chronic anal irritation (e.g. haemorrhoids, fissures and fistulas) Smoking. High-risk population HIV-positive women have a seven times higher risk of developing anal cancer than the general female population. The introduction of combination antiretroviral therapy has increased survival in this population, though the incidence of anal cancer has not decreased. Patients who have had solid organ transplants a lso have a high risk of anal cancer due to immunosuppression therapy. How is anal cancer screened for? Screening is done by all of the following methods: Tissue sample (performed annually) Digital rectal examination (DARE) High resolution anoscopy (HRA). This article was written with the support of physicians and other clinical professionals from the Hospital da Luz network. The content published in the Health Guide is intended for the general public and is provided for informational and educational purposes only. It does not replace individual medical assessment, diagnosis, or personalized clinical advice from a qualified healthcare professional. The content is produced or reviewed by physicians and other healthcare professionals at Hospital da Luz and is based on the knowledge available at the time of publication or the most recent update, as indicated at the beginning of each item.
