What is Anal Cancer?
Anal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the anus. Being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV) increases the risk of developing anal cancer. Signs of anal cancer include bleeding from the anus or rectum or a lump near the anus.
The anus (back passage) is the 4 cm long end portion of the large bowel, which opens to allow solid waste to exit the body.
Abnormal changes of the anus are sometimes harmless in their early stages, but may go on to develop into cancer.
Anal cancer is more common among women, men who receive anal intercourse, and people with weakened immune systems. Experts say that anal cancer is closely associated with some HPV (human papilloma virus) strains