Changes to your anal area or bowel habits can be scary or frustrating and cause worry aboutanal cancer.
This article will go into the symptoms of anal cancer and the complications of the disease.
What Is Anal Cancer?
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Anal cancer is the uncontrolled and abnormal growth of cells lining the anus.
The anus is the opening of the rectum.
It allows waste to pass from the large intestine and outside the body.
The anus is often confused with the rectum, which is the last several inches of the lower intestine.
The rectum ultimately ends at the anus, where fecal material exits the body.
Anal cancer is a rare but serious condition.
There was an estimated 8,590 new cases of anal cancer diagnosed in the United States in 2020.
See your healthcare provider if you experience any of these signs or symptoms.
They can do an exam to determine any underlying cause for your symptoms.
During your examination, your healthcare provider will perform a physical examination.
Your healthcare provider will also ask you questions about your medical history and risk factors.
Complications
Cancer and its treatment can sometimes lead to complications, even after treatment is over.
This is why post-treatment care is also important.
Call your healthcare provider if you notice anything different about your bowel habits or anal area.
A Word From VeryWell
Although anal cancer is rare, it is serious and warrants comprehensive treatment.
Cancer can cause uncertainty, but it is treatable.
Talk with your treatment team about any questions you may have and what you could expect.
No, it is a slow-growing cancer.
Most anal cancers do not spread.
The rectum and anus are two different body structures.
The rectum starts at the end of the large intestine and ends at the anus.
Cancer that starts in two different structures are two separate cancers.
The symptoms of both hemorrhoids and anal cancer can be very similar.
If you have symptoms, see your healthcare provider.
They can do an exam and determine the underlying cause of your symptoms.
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