Do Gay And Bisexual Men Have A Higher Risk Of Anal Cancer?

Believe it or not, your sexual behaviors can influence your risk of developing certain types of cancers. In patients who are exposed to HPV (human papillomavirus) through sexual activity, the risk of developing these cancers increases dramatically. More specifically, gay and bisexual men have an elevated risk level for anal cancer. At HEALOR Primary Care in Las Vegas, NV, board-certified physician Dr. Raj Singh understands the unique needs of the LGBTQ+ community and is committed to providing a comprehensive array of health services designed specifically for LGBTQ+ patients. In this blog, you’ll find more information about why certain patients have a higher risk of developing anal cancer, how we screen for anal cancer, and what signs or symptoms may mean you should seek an evaluation.

Why are gay men more likely to get anal cancer?

While some patients may have no symptoms at all, most people with anal cancer develop one or more symptoms of the disease over time. These may include:

• Bleeding per rectum

• Pain in the rectum or anus

• Change in bowel habits