Anal Cancer FACT SHEET
Anal cancer occurs when the cells within the tissues of the anus (the opening at the lower end of the intestines that connects to the outside of the body) become cancerous. Anal cancer is rare but treatable. Over the last three decades, the number of new cases has risen. While the cause of anal cancer is not entirely known, the disease has been linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, which is also associated with cervical cancer. Many cases of anal cancer can be found in the early stages when the cancer is most treatable, creating a high chance of survival. The risk of HPV infection can be reduced with appropriate vaccinations.