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Anal cancer is one of the rarest types of cancers that develop in the tissues surrounding the anus, the proper orifice at the end of the digestive tract. Such infrequency of the disease makes it a subject of many misunderstandings which cause undue panic.
Let’s look at some of the top myths about anal cancer-
Myth 1: Anal Cancer Always Result From Lack Of Proper Hygiene Measures
Fact: One of the most widespread myths is that anal cancer is because of poor hygiene. Whereas some form of sanitation is beneficial for health, it is not in any way pertinent to anal cancer development. Human papillomavirus- HPV infection, which is sexually transmitted, is the most significant risk factor for anal cancer. HPV infection alone causes approximately 85% of diagnosed anal cancers. Other risk factors are smoking, low immune resilience and anal wart infections. Proper sanitary measures may limit the risk of acquiring the virus but cannot be relied upon for the prevention of anal cancer.
Myth 2: Anal cancer is only prevalent in those individuals who have multiple sexual partners.
Fact: Although HPV is considered as one of the most common factors in the development of anal cancer and is sexually transmitted, it does not imply that only those who have multiple partners are the only people at risk.
All individuals who engage sexually, regardless of their number of sexual partners, are vulnerable to developing HPV. Even an individual with one lifetime partner may develop anal cancer through HPV infection. Sexual relations that include preventive measures such as condoms may lower the chances of contracting HPV but never protect against it completely. Getting vaccinated against HPV also substantially decreases the likelihood of acquiring anal cancer.
Myth 3: Anal Cancer Only Occurs in Men Who Have Sex with Men
Fact: This is one of the most irresponsible falsehoods that people have when it comes to anal cancer. Men who have sexual intercourse with men are at high risk of HPV infection, however, anyone can get anal cancer. It occurs in women and in men regardless of their sexual orientation. In fact, almost 50% of anal cancer patients are women. Moreover, older age, immunocompromised status (e.g., HIV), or smoking status can also increase chances for this disease.
Myth 4: Anal Cancer is Colon Cancer
Fact: Although both anal cancer and colon cancer belong to the gastrointestinal tract cancers, they are different cancer diseases.
Anal cancer occurs in the anal canal, while colon cancer occurs in the colon or large intestine. The risk factors, symptoms and treatment options for these two types of cancers are different. Colon cancer is more prevalent and has risk factors including diet, obesity and family history. While anal cancer most of the time is linked to HPV infection. Considering that the two cancers are not of the same origin, therefore, they do not target and require the same kind of treatment.
Myth 5: Anal cancer is always of the death diagnosis
Fact- Anal cancer is not always a death sentence – if found early, it’s a curable disease rather than a killer cancer. There is a range of 60 – 80 percent 5-year survival rate for anal malignancy provided that the diagnosis is made early enough. Some modern therapies – surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy – improved the mortality a lot. There are even patients with early diagnosed anal cancer who are cured and lead normal lives. Regular screening of high-risk groups is important for improving results because cancers are detected sooner.
Myth 6: There are no Early Warning Signs for Anal Cancer
Fact– Anal cancer does have signs even in the early stages, though often dismissed as the symptoms of simpler anorectal conditions such as fissures or haemorrhoids. Any or more of the listed symptoms are common and include:
Rectal bleeding
Pain or pressure in the anal region
Itching or abnormalities around the anus
Alteration in the frequency or consistency of stool (i.e. constipated, loose stools)
Loss of weight for no obvious reason
If any of these symptoms are observed continuously, one is advised to seek medical attention so as to investigate further all these symptoms. Treatment is more effective if the patient avails himself to the healthcare provider early and hence these signs should not be taken lightly.
Myth 7: Anal Cancer is Developed Almost Exclusively by the Elderly
Fact: There are several cancers, anal cancer being one of them, which has one of the greatest risks with increasing age. It can be found in every age group. Anal cancer states that it is more common in people above 50 years of age, however this is not accurate as younger individuals with risk factors including HPV or those with low immunity can also develop it. The risk of anal cancer in the young population can be reduced through regular screening and preventive measures such as HPV vaccination.
Myth 8: Only Young People Can Receive the HPV Vaccine
Fact: The HPV vaccine is given when most of the individuals have not been sexually active and this is the reason why it is given to young boys and girls aged 13 to 14.
Nonetheless, age-based risk stratification does not imply that the vaccine is not effective in the older population. People up to the age of 45 can still take the vaccine and get protection against some strains of HPV that causes anal cancer. If you are doubtful if you need to go for the vaccine, consult your doctor as he is best placed to evaluate your risk and what can be done.
How to Prevent Anal Cancer?
Although not every anal cancer case can be averted, certain measures could be taken in order to lower the level of risk:
Get the HPV Vaccine: This is the best preventive measure against other cancers related to HPV infection and for those anal cancer as well.
Avoid Sexual Activities: Use of condoms and limiting the number of permanent sexual partners may lessen the risk of HPV being passed on.
Stop Smoking: Factors like smoking increase the risk of anal cancer and stopping this habit would decrease the risk for such a disease.
Regular Screenings: Patients who are at a greater risk of developing anal cancer will benefit from having frequent screening tests which would help to detect any precautionary changes in the cells' ways before the cancer develops.
Conclusion
Most people tend to ignore anal cancer and the myths surrounding this disease may cause undeserved apprehension and embarrassment in people. Knowing the truth and facts on anal cancer, the factors that lead to it, and how it can be treated allows one to make decisions regarding their health and how to reduce the risk. Healthy discussions, routine tests and vaccinations for prevention of HPV are towards better results and improving the chances of early diagnosis of the disease.
The best approach in case of feeling or having symptoms is to consult a physician. Dr. Haytham El-Salhat, MD, MBA, FACS, FRCS (Glasg) is a foreign medical expert consultant in surgical oncology in UAE – Dr. Haytham N. El-Salhat. Dr. El-Salhat has extensive knowledge, skill and the most peripheral disease management strategies. You may want to avail yourself to the consultation of Dr. El-Salhat and experience high quality individualised services for your health.
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