Treatment for anal cancer
The main treatments for anal cancer are radiotherapy combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiotherapy) and surgery. You may also have treatment to reduce the symptoms and help you feel better.
Which treatment you have depends on factors including the stage of the cancer and the type. A team of health care professionals will look at all the factors and talk to you about what treatment they recommend.
Preparing for treatment and life afterwards (prehabilitation)
There are things you can do to help you feel more in control of your health when preparing for treatment. This is called prehabilitation or prehab.
Treatment options for anal cancer
The treatment you have depends on several factors. Most people with anal cancer have radiotherapy and chemotherapy combined (chemoradiotherapy).
Chemoradiotherapy for anal cancer
Chemotherapy combined with radiotherapy is called chemoradiotherapy. It is the most common treatment for anal cancer that hasn't spread to other parts of your body.
Surgery for anal cancer
You may need surgery if anal cancer comes back. Or hasn't all gone after chemoradiotherapy. Some people have surgery as the main treatment for stage 1 cancer in the anal margin.
Chemotherapy for anal cancer
Chemotherapy uses anti cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. You usually have chemotherapy on its own if the anal cancer has spread.
Radiotherapy for anal cancer
Radiotherapy uses high energy x-rays to destroy cancer cells. You might have it combined with chemotherapy (chemoradiotherapy). Or to relieve symptoms of advanced anal cancer.
Follow up after anal cancer treatment
After treatment, you have regular follow up appointments at the hospital. You might also have examinations and tests including scans.
