Anal cancer ‒ Time to pay attention

Anal cancer has traditionally received limited attention, partly because of its low incidence compared with other gastrointestinal malignancies. However, this situation may be changing. Although uncommon, anal cancer is increasingly recognized as a relevant public health problem in many high-income countries because it is largely human papillomavirus (HPV) related, potentially preventable, and disproportionately affects populations at increased risk. Incidence and mortality have increased over recent decades, particularly in populations exposed to persistent HPV infection and long-term immunosuppression, while population ageing and improved survival among people with HIV may further contribute to the growing disease burden.