Anal groups

Oncology social workers help you cope with the emotional and practical challenges of anal cancer. Learn more about counseling. Find resources and support to manage your financial concerns. Connect with others in our free support groups led by oncology social workers. We currently do not offer a anal cancer specific group.

She had lost her mother and sister to cancer, but no one in her family had a history colon or rectal cancer. In fact, anal cancer was rarely diagnosed in those days. The other was a man. Claudia had a port installed, underwent multiple surgeries, received chemotherapy and radiation and faced a host of side effects. She learned to eat again, regained her balance and learned to walk again. She grew accustomed to the chemo-induced tinnitus she now faces — and jumped fully into her role as an advocate and champion for patients facing anal cancer. Today, Claudia has decades of experience discussing one of the least-discussed, highly stigmatized cancers.

Treatment for anal cancer depends on many factors, including the location, type and stage of your tumor, as well as your age, health and personal preferences. Your doctor will discuss treatment options in detail with you and design the most effective plan for your condition. Invasive anal cancer is curable in many patients, particularly when it is diagnosed early and tumors are small. Anal cancers are most commonly treated with a combination of chemotherapy and radiation, which causes tumors to completely regress in 80 to 90 percent of cases.

Many anal cancers can be found early in the course of the disease. Early anal cancers often have signs and symptoms that lead people to see a doctor. Unfortunately, some anal cancers may not cause symptoms until they reach an advanced stage. Other anal cancers can cause symptoms like those of diseases other than cancer. This may delay their diagnosis.