Anal cancer may be increasing in prevalence, according to recent research, which also highlights the groups most at risk.

Data from the National Cancer Institute covering the years 2017 to 2021 has been reviewed in recent studies, revealing a particular group where cases of anal cancer have risen.

Anal cancer, which originates from abnormal cell growth in the anal canal (located at the end of the rectum), can be difficult to detect early. Symptoms include anal pain, itching, bleeding, and the presence of blood in the stool. Sometimes it may lead to the formation of a lump or growth, which is often confused with hemorrhoids.

A new study presented at Digestive Disease Week showed that the number of anal cancer cases increased by 1.6 percent in men and 2.9 percent in women between 2017 and 2021.

Lead author Dr. Ashley Robinson, a second-year internal medicine resident at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital, explained: “The fastest rise in anal cancer cases is seen among white and Hispanic women over 65—groups not traditionally considered to be at high risk.”

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Who's at Greater Risk for Anal Cancer?

The study found that the largest annual increase in anal cancer cases—4.3%—was observed in women over 65. In this group, Hispanic women saw a 1.7% rise annually.

If this trend continues, scientists predict that by 2038, the number of anal cancer cases in women over 65 could triple.

While the exact cause of this rise remains unclear, Dr. Robinson speculates that it could be linked to the HPV vaccine. Despite its widespread availability, women over 65 may not have received the vaccine, which is known to reduce the risk of HPV infection—an infection strongly associated with anal cancer. The HPV vaccine was introduced in the United States in 2006.

HPV is primarily spread through sexual contact and is responsible for a range of cancers, including cervical, oral, anal, penile, vulval, and vaginal cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention (CDC) recommends the vaccine for individuals up to age 26, ideally before becoming sexually active, as prior exposure to HPV can lessen the vaccine’s effectiveness.

In the UK, children aged 12 and 13 are eligible for the vaccination.

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Dr. Robinson emphasized, “It is critical to continue promoting the HPV vaccine as a key strategy in the prevention of anal cancer, while also keeping healthcare providers up to date as screening guidelines evolve.”

“These findings also underline the need for targeted screening in specific patient groups, particularly those with a higher risk of anal HPV and anal cancer.”

Although women over 65 are not currently screened for anal cancer, the study suggests that initiating screening for this age group could prove beneficial in early detection.