Overview
Anal cancer (also known as carcinoma of the anal canal) develops in your anus’ tissues or the lining of your anal canal. Your anal canal connects your anus (the opening) to your rectum (the lower part of your digestive system). Your anus is where poop leaves your body. Healthcare providers can cure anal cancer if they detect and treat it early on.
Types of anal cancer
There are two types of anal cancer — squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common anal cancer type. Squamous cell carcinoma in anal cancer is different from skin cancer that starts in the top layer of your skin.
Is anal cancer common?
No, it’s not. The American Cancer Society estimates more than 9,000 people in the United States will receive an anal cancer diagnosis in 2023. (The ACS estimates include anal cancer, anorectal cancer and anal canal cancer.) In comparison, an estimated 153,000 people will learn they have colon cancer in 2023.
Symptoms
When to see a doctor
Complications
- High blood pressure.
- Diabetes.
- Heart failure.
- Some types of heart valve disease.
Prevention
- Control high blood pressure, high cholesterol and diabetes.
- Don't smoke or use tobacco.
- Eat a diet that's low in salt and saturated fat.
- Exercise at least 30 minutes a day on most days of the week unless your health care team says not to.
- Get good sleep. Adults should aim for 7 to 9 hours daily.
- Maintain a healthy weight.
- Reduce and manage stress.
Living with atrial fibrillation?
Heart Rhythm Conditions Discussions
Comments are closed for this post.