HPV and Anal Cancer: The Need for Awareness and Screening

Human papillomavirus (HPV) is known to cause cervical and oral cancers, but it can also lead to anal cancer and anal dysplasia, which is a precancerous condition in the anus or anal canal. Dr. Amanda Ayers, a colon and rectal surgeon at Hartford HealthCare, based in eastern Connecticut, emphasizes the need for attention to this issue. Screening for anal dysplasia is crucial for those at risk, and it can help detect abnormalities early, reducing the progression to anal cancer.

What is Anal Dysplasia?

Anal dysplasia occurs due to the abnormal growth of cells in the anus or anal canal. If left untreated, these abnormal cells can develop into anal cancer. Anal dysplasia occurs mainly due to HPV, and those at risk include men who have sex with men, transgender women, persons living with HIV, and those with a history of vulvar cancer or dysplasia.

The study of anal dysplasia is a rapidly evolving field, and it was only in the last decade that researchers started to understand this condition. Once HPV enters the human body, it remains there forever. Depending on a person’s immune system, HPV can progress to cancerous cells. When individuals have a suppressed immune system, such as people living with HIV or persons who had a solid organ transplant, the cells are more likely to progress to cancer.

Screening for Anal Dysplasia

Regular screening for anal dysplasia is crucial for individuals at risk because this condition does not have any visible symptoms. Early detection of abnormal cells can help prevent cancer, and according to Dr. Ayers, it reduces the progression of anal cancer by 57%. Screening is performed using a high-resolution anoscopy (HRA), where a doctor inserts a small plastic tube to get a clear view of the anus using a colposcope. A biopsy may be necessary if the doctor detects suspicious lesions. Regular rectal exams, including an anal pap smear similar to a cervical Pap smear, are necessary for those detected with anal dysplasia.

Treatment for Anal Dysplasia

When abnormal cells are identified, fulguration, a procedure using heat from an electric current, is used to destroy the abnormal tissue. This treatment is targeted, and a doctor may avoid excising the tissue to prevent scar tissue in the area. Dr. Ayers conducts this procedure at Backus Hospital in Norwich, Connecticut.

Spreading Awareness

While anal dysplasia and cancer are not popular topics for discussion, Dr. Ayers and her team are working with community partners to spread the word about the situation, including at-risk groups. These individuals need medical attention that focuses on prevention, screening, and treatment to prevent cancer. Due to societal biases, marginalized groups may not receive equal medical care, emphasizing the importance of this kind of outreach. With community engagement, attention, and treatment can make a significant difference in the health of individuals at risk of anal dysplasia and cancer.

Conclusion

The need for awareness and screening for anal dysplasia and cancer is critical, like any other condition that can lead to cancer. Regular screening allows the detection of abnormalities early and can help prevent more severe health consequences. Knowing the risks and taking preventive measures, including regular screenings, can increase the chances of preventing these conditions.

Originally Post From https://hartfordhealthcare.org/about-us/news-press/news-detail?articleId=57442&publicid=395

Read more about this topic at
Anal Cancer Awareness Day
The Anal Cancer Foundation