Anal Cancer
The UK NSC policy on Anal Cancer screening in adults
More Information
The anus is the opening of the bowel, and is controlled by a ring of muscle that opens and closes to control bowel movements. Cancer of the anus is rare. Less than 800 people are diagnosed with this type of cancer each year in the UK. As with most cancers the cause of anal cancer is unknown. It is slightly more common in women than men.
Image © Clinical Skills Ltd and provided courtesy of Cancerbackup.
» Read more about anal cancer on Cancer Backup
Policy Position
Screening should not be offered.
This is a new policy. It is due to be reviewed in 2012/13, or earlier if significant new evidence emerges.
Evidence Supporting the Policy
The Health Technology Assessment (HTA) programme is reviewing the clinical and cost-effectiveness of anal cancer screening: see What are the pros and cons of screening high risk populations for anal cancer?
Following a review of anal cancer screening against the UK NSC criteria (below), the current evidence did not support either whole population screening or screening for specific sub groups. The UK NSC is awaiting the outcome of the HTA review before undertaking further work.
Stakeholders
Barts and the London NHS Trust, Sexual Health Centre
The British Association for Cancer Research
British Association for Sexual Health and HIV
British Association of Surgical Oncology
Cancer Research UK
GMFA - the gay men's health charity
Homerton University Hospital NHS Foundation Trust, Department of Sexual Health
Rarer Cancers Forum
Royal College of Physicians
Royal College of Physicians of Edinburgh
Royal College of Surgeons
The stakeholder groups will be involved when the policy is next reviewed. If you think your organisation should be added, please contact us.
