Understanding the Risk Factors and Treatment of Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is one of the uncommon cancer types, which develop in the anal canal. Malignant cells grow inside the canal and are related to HPV infection. Few common symptoms include bleeding from the rectum or a lump formation. Colonoscopy is the best diagnosis process.

HPV or Human Papillomavirus infection

Various research showed that HPV or Human Papillomavirus Infection increases the threat of anal cancer. Due to this reason, it is better to avoid sexual activities with someone who is having HPV since you can catch the infection. Health experts have found out multiple HPV, which are known as strains. Besides, research also showed that few HPV strains lead to a stronger type of cancer.

This type of virus spreads skin-to-skin and almost 150 types of strains are available. You must know that most of them do not cause any major health concern. Nonetheless a few strains eventually lead to abnormal cell growth that turns into cancer.. Indulging in too much anal sex might cause you to catch the infection.

Anal irritation

Anal itching is yet another risk factor behind anal cancer. Even though anal itching can be treated at home, too much of it can lead to anal cancer. Some of the common reasons behind anal irritation include atopic dermatitis, a form of eczema.

Another one of the common reasons behind anal irritation includes too much friction in that area that happens, especially after a bowel movement.

Exposure to dyes and perfumes present in toilet paper, clothing detergents, or soaps is yet another one of the common reasons behind anal irritation. The fact is, too much irritation leads to cancer. To diagnose it, doctors in Oklahoma recommend a colonoscopy. Other common problems that lead to anal irritation include hemorrhoids, yeast infections, anal fissures, parasitic infections, etc.

Low immunity

At times, people having low immunity face the problem of cancers. Many diseases affect the immunity system, like HIV or even organ transplantation. These diseases can lead to anal cancer. Alternatively, if you consume immunosuppressive drugs that affect the immunity system and make it weak also develop anal cancer.

Fistula

An anal fistula is an abnormal tunnel between the anal canal as well as the outer skin of the anus. When suffering from fistula, the tunnel drains pus, which stains clothing. Sometimes, the anal fistula irritates the outer skin and causes discomfort. When left untreated, anal fistula leads to anal cancer.

Prevention

Multiple factors lead to anal cancer. Although there are no ways of curing anal cancer, prevention is possible. Proton Therapy is quite an effective way of preventing it. Unlike chemotherapy, proton therapy does not come with any radiation; thus, making it a safe alternative. This therapy reduces the uncontrolled cell growth in the anal area; thus, reducing the risk of aggravating the existing problem.

Book an appointment for proton therapy

Proton therapy is not only effective; but also less damaging than other anal cancer treatments. At Digestive Disease Specialists, we offer state-of-the-art treatments. Book your appointments fast!

**Disclaimer: This blog content does not offer a doctor's advice and creates no relationship between any patient and care provider.