Known risk factors for anal cancer include chronic infection with HPV,
gender and age. HPV infection spreads primarily through vaginal, oral or anal
sex. The HPV vaccine provides
protection against many strains of the virus.
Other common risk factors for anal cancer include:
- A compromised immune system, often caused by
HIV (human immunodeficiency virus) infection, immunosuppressant’s or an
organ transplant
- Anal intercourse
- Other gynecologic cancers, such as cervical
cancer, vulvar cancer or vaginal cancer
- Chronic local inflammation, such as anal
fistulas or long-lasting open wounds
