Anal Dysplasia: Epidemiology, Risk Factors, and Progression to Malignancy

This review aims to address the framework for classification of anal dysplasia, immunogenic and behavioral risk factors for development of disease, the progression to anal cancer, and key intervention points to guide contemporary practice. Although anal cancer is rare, its rising incidence and disproportionate impact on racial minorities, immunocompromised individuals, and older adults require attention to combat high disease burden within these communities. Concentrated efforts with targeted resource allocation are required to address this rising disease incidence, following new screening guidelines developed to identify groups that are considered high-risk for anal dysplasia and the development of anal squamous cell carcinoma.