The incidence of anal cancer is increasing in many countries around the world particularly among individuals over 50 years of age.
Primary prevention of anal cancer is accomplished through HPV vaccination of individuals before exposure to the HPV types that cause anal cancer. Secondary prevention is accomplished through detection and treatment of the anal cancer precursor, anal high-grade squamous intraepithelial lesions (HSIL).
We now know that treatment of anal HSIL can reduce the incidence of anal cancer, similar to the reduction in cervical cancer associated with detection and treatment of cervical HSIL. Secondary prevention of anal cancer is a much younger field than prevention of cervical cancer, and virtually all elements of a secondary anal cancer prevention program require further development and optimization of current approaches.
In addition, further work is needed to better integrate the wide range of health care delivery systems and health care professions involved in the various steps involved, including screening, referral for high resolution anoscopy (HRA), biopsy of visible HSIL, treatment of HSIL and follow-up after treatment. Other professional interactions are key as well, including close collaboration with pathologists, proctologists/colorectal surgeons, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists.
This session will explore how each of the steps in the screening and treatment process can be improved on, including adoption of new technologies, and how the various entities described above can be better integrated to ensure a smoother, more efficient experience for patients.