NHS Factsheet

NHS website

Anal cancer

Anal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the anus. Get information and advice about symptoms, causes and treatments.

12 July 2022

Introduction

  • Anal cancer is a rare type of cancer that affects the anus.
  • The anus is where your bowel connects to the outside of your body (the bottom).
  • Anal cancer can start in any part of the anus.
  • How serious anal cancer is depends on where it starts, how big it is, if it spreads and your general health.

Get your symptoms checked

It's important to get any symptoms of anal cancer checked as soon as possible. Finding it early can make it more treatable.