Screening
Review our resources on anal precancer and screening.
UCSF and the LGBT Cancer Network list providers by state specializing in anal precancer screening. Anal cancer can be prevented if it is found and treated in its precancerous stages. If you believe you are at risk, or notice symptoms, get screened today. Linking to these lists does not reflect an endorsement by the Anal Cancer Foundation by any of these providers.
Treatment
Review our resources on the various treatment options for anal cancer and their side effects.
The National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) is a coalition of top cancer centers in the US that work together to create documents that outline standard treatment protocols, including recurrent and advanced anal cancer. If possible, we recommend being seen for at least a second opinion at one of their member network institutions, as providers at their hospitals have a higher likelihood of having treated more people with anal cancer.
The NCCN has created guidance on anal cancer treatment that we recommend speaking with your medical team about to ensure they are following the recommendations. We created an accompanying patient guide that puts this information and more in your hands!
General Medical Resources
American Cancer Society has comprehensive downloadable guides about anal cancer and HPV. It is a great starting place for information about the disease.
The American Society for Colposcopy and Cervical Pathology (ASCCP) aims to improve clinician competence and performance and patient outcomes through educational activities focused around the study, prevention, diagnosis and management of lower genital tract disorders.
American Social Health Association (ASHA) is a non-profit that provides information and support for people affected by Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs). We have provided the link to their HPV and Cervical Cancer Prevention Resource Center.
Cancer Research UK has comprehensive downloadable guides about anal cancer. It is a great starting place for information about the disease.
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has statistics and information about HPV-associated anal cancer and common questions about the HPV vaccine.
The International Anal Neoplasia Society (IANS) was seed funded by the Anal Cancer Foundation and the Farrah Fawcett Foundation. IANS’ mission is to provide a forum for exchange of ideas and dissemination of knowledge regarding the pathogenesis, diagnosis, treatment and prevention of anal neoplasia among individuals with a broad spectrum of background, viewpoints and geographic origin.
The International Papillomavirus Society’s mission is to facilitate research on human and animal papillomaviruses and their associated diseases. A summary of our notes from the lectures we attended can be found here: IPV 2011 Summary and HPV 2010 Summary.
International Pelvic Pain Society (IPPS) provides support to pelvic pain professionals and their patients. The following links will help with finding a provider and answering anonymously submitted questions. The site also offers a downloadable patient booklet and other resources that help patients with pelvic pain.
National Cancer Institute has information, statistics, and links to clinical trials. They also provide information about the HPV vaccine.
National Comprehensive Cancer Network is not-for-profit alliance dedicated to improving the quality and effectiveness of care provided for patients with cancer. They have guidelines for treatment of anal cancer. Many patients have found them helpful to read, print out and give to their oncologists for discussion. You must register with the website to have access to the anal cancer guidelines.
The Physicians’ Research Network (PRN) provides ongoing support for medical providers caring for people who have been infected with HIV and/or viral hepatitis. PRN provides CME services and has information about anal health.
Section on Women’s Health is an organization that supports physical therapists specializing in the health concerns of women and men, including pelvic pain, incontinence, and osteoporosis. This is the link to their PT (physical therapist) locator.
University of San Francisco Department of Medicine has comprehensive information about anal cancer treatment, diagnosis and screening. It is useful for both doctors and patients. Review their comprehensive list of High Resolution Anoscopy (HRA) providers.