ANAL CANCER: Understand To Protect Yourself And Your Loved Ones

Have you ever wondered: “Why can a small part like the anus become a big threat to health?” Anal cancer – a less talked about but equally dangerous disease – is quietly increasing in modern society. This article will guide you from SURPRISED to CLEARLY UNDERSTAND, equip yourself with knowledge to proactively cope!

Cary Gastroenterology Associates | Facts About Anal Cancer

1. Anal Cancer – The “Shadow” Enemy

HPV infection: 80% of anal cancers are related to HPV, especially HPV strains 16 and 18 (According to the World Health Organization WHO).

Weakened immune systemPeople with HIV or taking immunosuppressive drugs are at higher risk.

Anal sex: Anal intercourse increases friction, creating cracks – “open doors” for HPV to enter.

SmokingIncreases the risk of many types of cancer, including anal cancer.

AgeThe risk increases with age, especially after age 50.

2. Common Symptoms

  • Bleeding from the anus.
  • Itching, pain or discomfort in the anal area.
  • A lump or ulcer appears near the anus.
  • Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or persistent diarrhea

3. Diagnostic and Treatment Strategy

3.1. Diagnosis

Modern medicine helps EARLY DETECTION anal cancer in just 3 steps:

  • Digital rectal examination (DRE – Digital rectal examination): The doctor uses his finger to check for abnormalities for 60 seconds.
  • Colonoscopy, Ultrasound endoscopy + Biopsy: Camera siêu nhỏ “soi tận ruột”  kết hợp lấy mẫu tế bào. 
  • PET-CT/MRI: CT scan to determine the stage of the disease and the extent of metastasis.

3.2. Treatment methods 

  • Radiotherapy combined with chemotherapyEffective for early stage patients. Destroys cancer cells without surgery.
  • Tumor resection surgery: Apply when the tumor is large or recurrent.
  • Immunotherapy: Activate the immune system to attack cancer cells.

4. Disease Prevention – Protect Yourself From Today

Protect yourself against anal cancer with just 4 “GOLDEN SHIELD”:

  • HPV vaccination: Females 9-26 years old, males 9-21 years old should be vaccinated vaccine Helps prevent infection with high-risk HPV strains.
  • Safe Relationship: Use condoms, apply water-based lubricant to avoid anal scratches, limit the number of sexual partners.
  • Say NO to cigarettes:  Reduces the risk of many types of cancer.
  • Periodic screening: If you are in a high-risk group (HIV infection, homosexual relationship), you should have regular check-ups.

5. Final Words: Power Lies in Knowledge

Anal cancer is rare but can have serious consequences if not detected and treated promptly.

Anal cancer is not a “death sentence” – it is only dangerous when we SUBJECTIVE.

Remember: Every delay in seeking medical attention is a lost opportunity for life.

#UngThưHậuMôn #HPV #VắcXinHPV #SứcKhỏeHậuMôn #PhòngBệnhHiệuQuả #QuanHệAnToàn #BỏThuốcLá #TầmSoátUngThư #PhátHiệnSớm

Reference document

  1. MedlinePlus. Anal cancer. MedlinePlus. https://medlineplus.gov/analcancer.html. Updated October 15, 2023. Accessed June 20, 2024.