Colon cancer in gay men

A recent study published in the New England Journal of Medicine clearly demonstrated that it is possible to diagnose and treat abnormal cells in the anal canal before they can develop into cancer. Moreover, some HIV treatments and associated lifestyle factors, such as smoking and certain dietary habits, can further elevate cancer risks.

And living with HIV makes it harder for your immune system to get rid of harmful HPV infections.

But there is good news. While it affects individuals across all demographics, recent research has highlighted specific considerations regarding its prevalence and risk factors in gay men. This makes anal cancer one of the most common cancers affecting gay men.

However, studies indicate that men who identify as gay may have distinct risk profiles influenced by behavioral, social, and healthcare access factors. Farrah Fawcett, one of Charlie’s Angels, is probably the best-known celebrity to battle anal cancer, losing her fight in 2009.

Anal cancer also affects the “butthole” — a body part most people aren’t clamoring to talk about.

This vaccine works best before you are exposed to HPV, so that is why it’s highly recommended for adolescents. For instance, sexual practices, such as receptive anal intercourse, can sometimes lead to concerns about sexually transmitted infections, which in turn may influence rectal health. Proactive healthcare, regular screenings, and healthy lifestyle choices are essential strategies for reducing this risk and promoting long-term health within the community.

*The information on our website is not intended to direct people to diagnosis and treatment.

That means they will insert their finger about an inch into your “butthole” to feel for abnormalities.

Healthcare providers should be approached openly regarding sexual health and potential risk factors to tailor screening schedules appropriately.

In recent years, increased awareness and targeted health messaging have begun to address colorectal cancer risks in the gay community. In the absence of national guidelines, you can talk to a doctor to see if anal cancer screening is appropriate for you.

You should also be aware about the symptoms associated with anal cancer.

Some federal health insurance programs include:

• Medicaid
• Medicare
• Affordable Care Act (ACA)
• Consolidated Omnibus Budget Reconciliation Act (COBRA)

The recommends the following:

• Everyone should go to regular colorectal screening appointments from the age of 45 years.
• Healthy individuals who have a life expectancy of more than 10 years should continue regular colorectal cancer screening through the age of 75 years.
• Anyone between 76 and 85 years old should discuss the decision to be screened with their doctor, based on personal preferences, life expectancy, overall health, and screening history.

People can use the ACS screening location tool to find a colorectal screening location near them.

Colorectal cancer does not always cause symptoms, so regular screening is an important part of preventing the condition.

Although engaging in anal sex does not directly cause colorectal cancer, it can increase the risk of infections like human papillomavirus (HPV) and other pathogens, which have been linked to an increased risk of certain cancers, including anal and possibly colorectal cancers.

This newly updated brief describes this community’s unique barriers to colorectal cancer screening and outlines action steps to support colorectal cancer screening in LGBTQ+ communities.