Anal Cancer Awareness about Causes
Cancer of the anus is mainly caused due to anal sex. Such activity causes serious injuries and infections in the anal areas and leads to weakening the tissues and cells therein. Such infections may also cause rapid progress of the disease to higher stages. This directly affects the life expectancy of anal cancer and also alters the survival rate.
People indulged in multiple sex-partners have a high probability of being infected by Human Papillomavirus (HPV). HPV vaccines are available to cure the virus but ignorance of the disease for too long may cause severe disturbances in the cell-growth process and prevent the tissues from generating basic resources essential for the body.
Smoking and chewing of tobacco should be strictly avoided as it leads to serious damage to internal areas of the body. Consumption of other carcinogenic substances like alcohol may also lead to rapid development of malignant cells in the anal areas.
Symptoms and Anal Cancer Awareness
Formation of tumors or lumps in the anal areas is the first and primary symptom of cancer of the anus. Such lumps may also be non-cancerous but thorough examination of the affected area is recommended to eliminate the chances of cancerous growth. Some may also face severe anal pains or frequent bleeding in the anus. Unusual discharge is also an alarming early sign of cancerous development in the anus. Improper or uneasy movements of the bowel and ulcers in or around the anus should be given urgent medical attention.
Detection and Diagnosis
Digital Rectal Exam (DRE) and Fine Needle Aspiration Biopsy are some of the popular and reliable methods to trace polyp-growth in the anus. A few other methods like Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI), Positron Emission Tomography (PET) test and endoscopy can also contribute significantly in tracing infected tumors. One can also undergo Computed Tomography (CT) scan and X-rays to get a rough idea about the spread of tumors.
Anal cancer awareness is a key to minimizing the cases of anal cancer worldwide and also helps in early detection of the disease. Many cancer support groups and educational organizations play an active role in informing people about various aspects of the disease and give them anal cancer prevention tips well in advance. Hence, awareness benefits the victim to a considerable extent.