Anal Cancer ( Risk Factors) Are You At Risk?

Most anal cancers (80%) are diagnosed in people who are over the age of 60. Prior to age 35, anal cancer is more common in men. However, after age 50, anal cancer is slightly more common in women.

The incidence rate of anal cancer is six times higher in single men as compared to married men.

Receptive anal intercourse is strongly related to the development of anal cancer.

Anal infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) resulting in genital warts is a major risk factor for the cancer.

Immuno-compromised patients, such as those with HIV disease, are prone to get anal cancer. In this subgroup, the prognosis is worse, than for non-immunocompromised patients.

So in a nut shell, What are those factors that may place a person in the risk zone of anal cancer risk?

• Being over 50 years old.
• Being infected with human papillomavirus (HPV).
• Having many sexual partners.
• Having receptive anal intercourse (anal sex).
• Frequent anal redness, swelling, and soreness.
• Having anal fistulas (abnormal openings).
• Smoking cigarettes.

  Gardasil, the HPV vaccine originally approved for the prevention of cervical cancer, was approved for the prevention of anal cancer in late 2010.

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