Anal Cancer: Causes, Treatment, and Cost in India

Anal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the anal canal, the short passage through which stool exits the body. Though less common than colorectal cancer, its incidence is rising, particularly in populations with specific risk factors. India has become a hub for affordable, high-quality anal cancer treatment with modern therapies, expert oncologists like Dr. Ankur Bahl, and support for international patients.

The average cost of anal cancer treatment in India ranges from $3,000 to $8,000, depending on the stage and treatment modality. Compared to the USA or UK, this offers savings of up to 80% without compromising quality.

What Is Anal Cancer?

Anal cancer refers to the abnormal growth of malignant cells in the tissues of the anus or anal canal. The most common form is squamous cell carcinoma, which begins in the cells lining the anal canal. Though anal cancer is relatively rare, its risk has increased due to rising HPV infection rates.

This type of cancer differs from colorectal cancer in location, treatment protocols, and outcomes. With early diagnosis and appropriate treatment, anal cancer is highly curable, especially when confined to the local area.

Types of Anal Cancer

1. Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is the most common type, originating in the flat cells lining the anal canal. It responds well to combined chemoradiotherapy.
2. Adenocarcinoma: This rare form starts in the glandular cells of the anal canal and may be treated similarly to rectal cancers.
3. Melanoma: A highly aggressive cancer originating from pigment-producing cells. It is rare but has a poor prognosis due to early metastasis.
4. Basal Cell Carcinoma: Extremely rare in the anal area; it usually grows slowly and rarely spreads.

What Causes Anal Cancer?

The primary cause of anal cancer is long-term infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Other risk factors include:

• Age over 50 years
• History of HPV infection
• Weakened immune system (HIV-positive individuals)
• Anal intercourse or multiple sexual partners
• Smoking
• Chronic inflammation due to anal fistulas or abscesses
• History of cervical, vulvar, or vaginal cancer

Symptoms of Anal Cancer

Common symptoms may mimic other less serious conditions like hemorrhoids:

• Rectal bleeding
• Pain or pressure in the anal area
• Anal itching or discharge
• A lump or mass near the anus
• Change in bowel habits

Early-stage anal cancer is often asymptomatic, so routine checkups for at-risk individuals are crucial.

How Is Anal Cancer Diagnosed?

Diagnosis involves a combination of clinical evaluation and diagnostic tests:

1. Physical Examination: Digital rectal exam and visual inspection.
2. Anoscopy: A small tube inserted into the anal canal for visual inspection.
3. Biopsy: Tissue sample analysis to confirm malignancy.
4. Imaging Tests:

• CT Scan or MRI to assess local spread
• PET-CT to detect metastasis
• HPV testing to confirm viral involvement

Stages of Anal Cancer

• Stage 0 (Carcinoma in situ)
• Stage I (Tumor <2 cm, localized)
• Stage II (Tumor >2 cm, but no spread to lymph nodes)
• Stage III (Spread to nearby lymph nodes or organs)
• Stage IV (Metastasis to distant organs)

Anal Cancer Treatment Options in India

India offers a multidisciplinary treatment approach based on stage and individual health:

1. Chemoradiotherapy (Standard for Most Patients)

• Combination of 5-FU (Fluorouracil) and Mitomycin C with radiation
• Preserves anal function, avoiding surgery
• Administered over 5–6 weeks

2. Radiation Therapy

• IMRT, IGRT, or VMAT used to minimize damage to healthy tissue
• Daily sessions for 5–6 weeks

3. Surgery (For Residual or Recurrent Cases)

• Abdominoperineal Resection (APR) if cancer does not respond to chemo-radiation
• Requires a permanent colostomy

4. Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy

• For advanced/metastatic cases
• Includes PD-1 inhibitors (Nivolumab, Pembrolizumab) or EGFR inhibitors

5. Palliative Care

• Pain management, stenting, colostomy, and psychosocial support for late-stage patients

Cost of Anal Cancer Treatment in India

Why Choose Dr. Ankur Bahl for Anal Cancer Treatment?

• Over 20 years of oncology experience
• Specialist in gastrointestinal and anal cancers
• Head of oncology at top hospitals
• Offers evidence-based treatment using global protocols
• High success rate and positive patient outcomes

Recovery and Post-Treatment Care

• Hospital stay: 2–5 days depending on treatment
• Side effects: fatigue, skin irritation, bowel changes
• Follow-up every 3–6 months with imaging and rectal exams
• Nutrition support, pelvic floor physiotherapy, and stoma care (if applicable)

Survival Rate and Prognosis

• Stage I–II: 75–90% 5-year survival with chemoradiation
• Stage III: 50–70% 5-year survival
• Stage IV: 20–40% survival with systemic therapy
• Early detection and adherence to protocol significantly improve outcomes

International Patient Support

India welcomes patients from Africa, the Middle East, CIS, and Southeast Asia. Services include:

• Medical visa assistance
• Airport transfers
• Multilingual interpreters (Arabic, French, Swahili, etc.)
• Affordable lodging near hospitals
• Online consultation and follow-up support