The information on this page was reviewed and approved by
Maurie Markman, MD, President, Medicine & Science at CTCA.
This page was updated on November 04, 2020.
Early detection of anal cancer is common because these tumors develop in a part of the digestive tract that doctors are able to see and reach. Symptoms of early-stage anal cancer often prompt patients to visit their doctor, though not everyone experiences symptoms.
More than half of patients with anal cancer experience rectal bleeding, which is often the first indication of the disease. Symptoms of anal tumors may be similar to benign conditions, such as hemorrhoids, fissures, fistulas and anal warts. It’s important to discuss these symptoms with your doctor to determine whether or not your anal tumors are cancerous.
Other common symptoms of anal cancer, in addition to rectal bleeding, may include: