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Anal Cancer

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General Information About Anal Cancer

Anal cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the anus.

The anus is the end of the large intestine, below the rectum, through which stool (solid waste) leaves the body. The anus is formed partly from the outer skin layers of the body and partly from the intestine. Two ring-like muscles, called sphincter muscles, open and close the anal opening to let stool pass out of the body. The anal canal, the part of the anus between the rectum and the anal opening, is about 1½ inches long.

The skin around the outside of the anus is called the perianal area. Tumors in this area are skin tumors, not anal cancer.

Being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV) can affect the risk of developing anal cancer.

Risk factors include the following:

• 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.

Anatomy of the lower digestive system, showing the colon and other organs.