Causes of anal cancer

Lifestyle, health and genetic factors that can increase your risk of developing anal cancer include:

• Infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV)
• History of multiple sexual partners and receptive anal intercourse
• Pre-existing conditions including immunodeficiency, long term inflammation around the anus, chronic fistula disease and cervical, vulval and vaginal cancers/cell abnormalities in women
• Smoking

The most common cause of anal cancer is the sexually transmitted infection known as human papillomavirus or HPV. HPV increases the risk of many cancers, including cervical, vaginal, penile, mouth and throat cancers.

Symptoms of anal cancer

• Pain, discomfort or itching around the anus
• Frequent urge to defecate
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements
• Blood or mucus in stool