Anal cancer is a fairly rare type of cancer that occurs in the anus and anal canal. Approximately 8,000 people are diagnosed with anal cancer each year in the United States.
Anal cancer can be successfully treated if detected early. Unfortunately, there are many superstitions regarding anal cancer.We spoke to a gastrointestinal radiation oncologist Dr. Emma Hollidayshe debunked three common myths about anal cancer.
1. Myth: Anal cancer is the same as colorectal cancer.
truth: Anal cancer is different from colorectal cancer. These diseases are defined by the location of the tumor and the type of cancer cells that make up the tumor. In anal cancer, the tumor begins in the anus and anal canal.
Some patients tell friends and family that they are being treated for colorectal cancer even though they know they have anal cancer. This is because many people feel uncomfortable talking about the anus.
“We need to do a better job of removing the discomfort and stigma associated with talking about the anus so that doctors can tell patients exactly what type of cancer they have,” Holliday says. “This also helps patients feel able to share their experiences with others if they wish.”
2. Myth: Only people who are promiscuous or accept anal sex get anal cancer.
truth: Human papillomavirus (HPV) is the biggest risk factor for anal cancer and is very common. Eight out of 10 people in the United States will become infected with this virus during their lifetime. It can be transmitted through any intimate skin-to-skin contact. Most people’s immune systems eliminate viruses before they can cause any problems. But for some people, the virus can cause cell changes that can develop into cancer.
Just because you have anal cancer or other HPV-related cancers does not mean you are actively infected with HPV. It also doesn’t mean you’ve recently had a virus. It usually takes several decades for HPV infection to cause cellular changes to develop into cancer. If you’re eligible, you can get her HPV vaccine, which helps prevent anal cancer and five other types of cancer.
Anal sex, especially partnered anal sex, has long been cited as a risk factor for anal cancer. However, that doesn’t mean you have to have anal sex to get anal cancer.
“I think this misconception makes patients reluctant to talk openly about their diagnosis,” Holliday says. “The anus is just a part of the body too! We should be able to talk about it like the colon, the prostate, the elbow.”
3. Myth: Treatment for anal cancer requires a colostomy bag.
truth: The most common type of anal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, which forms in the cells lining the anus. Anal squamous cell carcinoma is usually successfully treated with radiation therapy and chemotherapy. Most patients do not need surgery for this cancer and do not need a colostomy bag.
If you are an MD Anderson patient struggling with an anal cancer diagnosis, you can talk to a social work counselor who can provide support and resources to help you deal with your emotions.
Request an appointment online with MD Anderson Or call 1-877-632-6789.