Anal Cancer

Overview

The anus, a muscular area at the end of the digestive tract, opens and closes to control bowel movements. In anal cancer, cancerous (malignant) cells are found in the anus. Anal cancer is uncommon and is often curable. Outcome (prognosis) relates to the location of the cancer, the size of the tumor, and whether the cancer has spread to the lymph nodes.

Why Choose Mayo Clinic

• Expertise. Mayo Clinic has one of the largest, most comprehensive cancer diagnosis and treatment programs in the world. Mayo Clinic doctors diagnose and treat thousands of people with all types of cancer each year and use their experience to provide the most effective treatment.
• A team of specialists. At Mayo Clinic, people with anal cancer receive coordinated care from an experienced team of doctors and health care professionals committed to providing comprehensive diagnoses, treatments and detailed answers.
• Efficiency. In many cases, a comprehensive treatment plan can be started within a few days of diagnosis.
• Cutting-edge care. Mayo Clinic Cancer Center, which meets strict standards for a National Cancer Institute comprehensive cancer center, is a leader in translating research knowledge into effective improvements to care for people with cancer and their families.

Mayo Clinic in Rochester, Minn., ranks No. 1 for digestive disorders in the U.S. News & World Report Best Hospitals rankings. Mayo Clinic in Scottsdale, Ariz., and Mayo Clinic in Jacksonville, Fla., are ranked high performing for digestive disorders by U.S. News & World Report.

Read more about anal cancer at MayoClinic.com.