Common Causes of Anal Cancer
Although anal cancer is considered to be a rare disease more and more cases are being discovered. Anal cancer is typically confined to the area in, around or on the anus which is the opening at the end of the rectum. The most often contracted form of this disease is squamous cell carcinoma which begins in the outer lining of the anus. Another cancer that is related to this called cloacogenic carcinoma. This cancer usually occurs between the anus and rectum. Skin cancer can also affect the anal area. Another occurrence that take place in this area include polyps and warts. Although these are often not cancerous they can turn cancerous over the progression of time. Cancer occurs when the general function that controls the growth of cells is changed. When this happens, cells begin to grow nonstop thus resulting in cancer. There are several causes of anal cancer. In order to determine if you are at risk it is necessary to examine some of the risks and causes associated with this disease
It was previously though that anal cancer may be caused by the recurring irritation of the skin around the anus that is related to cracks or fissures as well as hemorrhoids or fistulae which is defined as an abnormal passage. However these beliefs are no longer as common as in times past. In more recent times it is becoming more widely suggested that this type of cancer may be caused by other things.
One factor that is believed to have a large role among the causes of anal cancer is the presence of viruses such as HIV or human immunodeficiency virus and HPV also known as human papillomavirus. Both of those are typically sexually transmitted diseases that can travel from one sexual partner to another although in some cases they can be contracted in other ways as well.
HIV generally attacks the immune system making it difficult for the body to fight off infections. HPV is known to cause genital warts as well as cervical cancer. Although there is now a vaccine that can be given to women in an effort to lower the risk of cervical cancer this vaccine is not available for use in the prevention of anal cancer.
Other risk factors that have been considered to be possible causes of anal cancer include a history of cervical or vulvar cancer, recipients of transplants, and homosexuality. Another factor that may increase the risk of anal cancer is thought to be individual that are at a risk for another disease called AIN or anal intraepithelial neoplasa. This is a precancerous change in the mucus of the anus and individuals with it or at high risk for getting it are thought to be at a higher risk of developing anal cancer. Recurring warts or hemorrhoids are also thought to elevate the risk of contracting anal cancer.
Although not all cases of anal cancer produce symptoms some of the signs to watch for include itching and bleeding of the rectum or anal area. In addition to these symptoms if you experience any of these or other symptoms such as pain or pressure in the anal area or any kind of unusual anal discharge you should seek prompt medical attention.
