Seven hidden warning signs of killer cancer no one ever talks about

Anal cancer is not one of the most common cancers in the UK but it is still responsible for the deaths of around 440 people every year - here's everything you need to know

Anal cancer is a rare form of cancer that not many know of, despite it impacting around 1,600 people in the UK every year.

While it is not among the 20 most common cancers in the UK, according to Cancer Research UK, around 440 people die from anal cancer every year. People aged 80 and over are more likely to be diagnosed with anal cancer, although it can affect any gender and any age.

Worryingly, anal cancer incidence rates are projected to rise by 14 per cent in the UK between 2023-2025 and 2038-2040. This means it is crucial that we all know the symptoms and warning signs to look out for so they can be treated in the early stages.

Anal cancer can start in any part of the anus, according to the NHS, and it's usually caused by an infection called human papillomavirus (HPV). The virus is extremely common and affects 80 per cent of people at some point in their lives, the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention says, reports Daily Star.

Getting the HPV vaccine can help prevent anal cancer, although it is usually very hard to detect as one in five people experience no symptoms. However, there are seven hidden warning signs you should look out for:

• Bleeding from the back passage or noticing blood in your poo
• Pain around the anal area
• A small lump (or lumps) around the anus
• Severe itching in the area around your anus
• Discharge of mucus from your back passage
• Changes in bowel movements, such as not being able to control them
• Ulcers around the anus which spread to the buttocks

If you experience any of these symptoms it does not necessarily mean you have anal cancer. Some of the symptoms are also associated with conditions such as piles so it's important to book an appointment with a doctor to get yourself checked.

"These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions," the NHS says. "Having them does not definitely mean you have anal cancer. But it's important to get them checked by a GP. This is because if they're caused by cancer, finding it early means treatment is more likely to be successful."

Smoking, having a weakened immune system and a history of genital warts are all factors which increase your risk of developing anal cancer. The main type of treatment for anal cancer is a combination of radiotherapy and chemotherapy, however, surgery may also be required.