What is anal canal cancer?

Anal canal cancer is a cancer that develops in the anal canal, the last part of your digestive tract that connects the rectum to the anus. According to the best oncologist in Kolkata, most cases of anal canal cancer are caused by a type of virus known as human papillomavirus (HPV), which is also a major cause of cervical cancer in women.

Common signs and symptoms of anal canal cancer have been listed below by a cancer doctor in Kolkata.

1. Rectal bleeding 2. Pain or discomfort in the anal area 3. Persistent itching or burning sensation in the anus 4 . Discharge from the anus 5. Changes in bowel habits like diarrhoea or constipation 6. A feeling of fullness in the rectum 7. A lump or mass in your anal area 8. Fatigue or weakness 9. Unintended weight loss

Some of the common causes of anal cancer include:

1. Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection : This is the most common cause of anal cancer. HPV is a sexually transmitted virus that may sometimes cause abnormal changes in the cells of the anal canal, leading to the development of cancer. 2. Smoking : People who smoke are at a higher risk of developing anal cancer than non-smokers. 3. Weakened immune system : People with weakened immune systems, like those who have HIV or have undergone an organ transplant, are at a higher risk of developing anal cancer. 4. Age and gender : Anal cancer is more common in older adults and is slightly more common in women than in men. 5. History of sexually transmitted infections : A history of sexually transmitted infections such as chlamydia, gonorrhoea, or genital warts can increase the risk of developing anal cancer. 6. Anal intercourse : Having anal sex can increase the risk of developing anal cancer, especially if HPV is also present. 7. Personal history of cancer : People who have had other types of cancer, such as cervical or colorectal cancer, are at a higher risk of developing anal cancer.

The main treatments for anal cancer have been listed below by a medical oncologist in Kolkata.

1. Radiation therapy : It uses high-energy X-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. It may be used in combination with other treatments or alone. 2. Chemotherapy : It uses drugs to kill cancerous cells. It might be given before or after surgery or in combination with radiation therapy. 3. Immunotherapy : It is a type of treatment that helps the body’s immune system to fight cancer cells. 4. Surgery : Surgery may be recommended to remove the tumour and surrounding tissue. The kind of surgery performed will depend on the location and size of the tumour. In some cases, a colostomy may be needed, where an opening is made in the abdomen to allow the waste to be collected in a bag outside the body.