Anal cancer ‒ Time to pay attention
Juan Berenguer1, José Antonio Pérez-Molina2
1Infectious Diseases, Instituto Investigación Sanitaria Gregorio Marañón. CIBERINFEC, Spain.
Revista Espanola De Enfermedades Digestivas
|June 18, 2026
Summary
Anal cancer, often overlooked, is a growing public health concern. This human papillomavirus (HPV)-related malignancy is preventable and disproportionately affects at-risk groups, with rising incidence and mortality.
Area of Science:
- Oncology
- Public Health
- Epidemiology
Background:
- Anal cancer is historically under-recognized due to low incidence compared to other gastrointestinal cancers.
- It is increasingly viewed as a significant public health issue in high-income nations.
- The rise is linked to human papillomavirus (HPV) infections and long-term immunosuppression.
Purpose of the Study:
- To highlight the changing landscape of anal cancer epidemiology.
- To underscore its relevance as a potentially preventable public health problem.
- To identify factors contributing to the increasing disease burden.
Main Methods:
- Review of epidemiological trends in anal cancer incidence and mortality.
- Analysis of risk factors including HPV infection and immunosuppression.
- Consideration of demographic shifts like population aging and improved HIV survival.
Main Results:
- Incidence and mortality rates for anal cancer have been increasing in recent decades.
- Populations with persistent HPV infection and long-term immunosuppression are disproportionately affected.
- Population aging and better survival for individuals with HIV are contributing to the growing burden.
Conclusions:
- Anal cancer, though uncommon, is a growing public health concern.
- Its HPV-related nature makes it a potentially preventable malignancy.
- Rising incidence and mortality necessitate increased attention and targeted public health strategies.
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