If radiation therapy part of the treatment plan, we map the exact shape and location of your tumor, then direct cancer-killing radiation at just the tumor, minimizing the impact on healthy tissue and reducing side effects. Chemotherapy and surgery are also possible treatments.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Depending on your cancer, just the tumor and some surrounding tissue may be removed surgically. Called a local resection, the sphincter muscles may be unaffected so you can still control bowel movements.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Anal cancer that comes back after radiation therapy or chemotherapy may be treated with an abdominoperineal resection that removes the anus, rectum and part of the colon through an abdominal incision. After this procedure, the patient\u2019s body waste is collected in an external bag through an opening the surgeon creates in the surface of the abdomen.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Signs of Anal Cancer<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Some signs and symptoms of anal cancer are similar to other diseases or conditions, such as hemorrhoids. If you have any of the following, check with your health care provider:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- Bleeding from the anus or rectum, with or without a bowel movement<\/li>
- Pain, pressure or itching near the anus<\/li>
- A lump near the anus<\/li>
- Unusual discharge from the anus<\/li>
- Changes in bowel movements<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Many people assume itching in the anal area is caused by hemorrhoids (itchy, painful or bleeding masses of tissue in the anus). This can delay diagnosis and treatment of anal cancer.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
What Causes Anal Cancer?<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
Like other cancers, there are multiple factors that can put you at risk.<\/p>\n\n\n\n
Risk factors include:<\/p>\n\n\n\n
- HPV status \u2013 The human papillomavirus has a strong link to anal cancer.<\/li>
- Age \u2013 Most cases of anal cancer happen in adults age 50 and older.<\/li>
- Sexual activity \u2013 Those who have had many sexual partners or who engage in receptive anal sex are more likely to develop anal cancer.<\/li>
- Drugs or conditions \u2013 If you are taking drugs or have a condition that weakens your immune system, you are at a higher risk.<\/li>
- Smoking<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n
Anal Cancer Care for the Whole Person<\/h2>\n\n\n\n
![\"\"](\"https:\/\/nortonhealthcare.com\/wp-content\/uploads\/rad-onc_seal_sm.jpg\")
<\/figure>\n\n\n\n- Norton Cancer Institute has nine outpatient locations and multiple infusion centers in Louisville and surrounding counties and Southern Indiana. We have three radiation centers located just off major interstates, with free, self-service parking and valet parking.<\/li>
- Our gastrointestinal cancer patient navigator guides you through the treatment process. The navigator is a registered nurse and advocate for patients and families who can help coordinate scheduling to minimize your visits. The navigator provides information and support throughout your diagnosis, treatment and beyond.<\/li>
- The Norton Cancer Institute multidisciplinary approach to cancer care means you\u2019ll have access to multiple specialists, including medical oncologists, radiation oncologists, surgical oncologists, interventional radiologists, interventional gastroenterologists, researchers, geneticists and dietitians.<\/li>
- We pull together providers from various disciplines to help identify the best treatment for you. At Norton Cancer Institute review boards, you will be considered for innovative clinical trials, immunotherapy, minimally invasive procedures, state-of-the-art radiation and advanced diagnostics.<\/li><\/ul>\n\n\n\n<\/div>\n\n\n
![\"Basel](\"https:\/\/cdn-images.kyruus.com\/providermatch\/norton\/photos\/500\/altoos-basel-1669851424.jpg\")
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