A recent medical study has identified a notable rise in anal cancer rates within certain demographics in the United States, particularly among older women. The analysis, based on data from the National Cancer Institute collected between 2017 and 2021, reveals concerning trends in the prevalence of this disease.
Anal cancer originates from abnormal cell growth in the anal canal, which is located at the end of the digestive tract. Common symptoms may include rectal bleeding, pain, itching, and the presence of a lump or growth—frequently mistaken for benign conditions such as hemorrhoids.
The study, presented at Digestive Disease Week, indicates that anal cancer rates increased annually by 2.9% in women and 1.6% in men during the study period. The most significant rise was observed among white and Hispanic women aged over 65, a group not historically considered at high risk for this type of cancer.
In particular, women in this age group experienced a 4.3% annual increase, while Hispanic women over 65 saw a 1.7% rise. If this trend persists, researchers estimate that the incidence of anal cancer in women over 65 could potentially double within the next 17 years.
Though the precise causes behind this increase remain uncertain, one theory suggests that limited access to or uptake of the HPV (human papillomavirus) vaccine among older populations may be a contributing factor. HPV is known to be a leading cause of anal cancer, along with several other forms of cancer, including cervical, penile, and oropharyngeal cancers.
The HPV vaccine, first introduced in the United States in 2006, is designed to prevent infection by certain high-risk strains of the virus. It is most effective when administered prior to the onset of sexual activity and is currently recommended for individuals up to 26 years old. However, those who are now over 65 may not have benefited from widespread vaccine availability during their younger years.
Dr. Ashley Robinson, the study’s lead author and a resident physician at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, emphasized the importance of proactive measures. “These findings highlight specific patient groups who may benefit from targeted screening for anal HPV and anal cancer,” she stated, underscoring the need for evolving screening protocols and broader education on HPV prevention.
At present, routine screening for anal cancer is not common among older women, but the study suggests that introducing such measures could be advantageous in reducing late-stage diagnoses.
Source: Mirror UK (https://mirror.co.uk)
