Anal cancer can often be cured, especially if it is found and treated at an early stage. Chances of a cure are generally better if the cancer is confined to the anus and has not spread to other parts of the body.
The overall five-year anal cancer survival rate is 69%. When the cancer is diagnosed early, the five-year survival rate jumps to 82%. That means that 82% of people diagnosed with anal cancer are still alive five years later.
Treatment for anal cancer may include surgery to remove the cancer, radiation therapy to kill cancer cells, and chemotherapy to help kill cancer cells and prevent them from growing and spreading. The specific treatment plan will depend on the type and stage of the cancer, as well as the overall health of the person with cancer.
Keep in mind that survival rates are just estimates. They can’t tell you how you’ll respond to treatment or how long you’ll live. It is also important to note that the term “cure” means that the cancer is completely gone and does not come back. However, in some cases, cancer may come back even after treatment. This is known as recurrence. The risk of recurrence is generally higher for people with more advanced stages of cancer and for those who do not receive treatment.
If you have been diagnosed with anal cancer, it is important to speak with your healthcare team about your treatment options and the chances of a cure. They can provide you with more information about your specific situation and help you make decisions about your care.