Tests And Next Steps

Main tests for anal cancer

You might have some tests and scans to check for anal cancer if a GP refers you to a specialist.

The tests you have will depend on your symptoms.

The tests may include:

putting a thin tube with a camera and light into your bottom to check for any changes
taking a small sample from your anus (biopsy) so it can be looked at in a laboratory under a microscope
blood tests

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: tests to diagnose anal cancer

Getting your results

You should get the results of your tests within a few weeks.

Try not to worry if your results are taking longer than you expected. You can call the hospital or GP if you're worried. They should be able to update you.

A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next. You may want to bring someone with you for support.

If you're told you have anal cancer

Being told you have anal cancer can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about what will happen next.

It can help to bring someone with you to any appointments you have.

A group of specialists will look after you throughout your diagnosis, during and after treatment.

Your team will include a clinical nurse specialist who will be your main point of contact during and after treatment.

You can ask them any questions you have.

Macmillan Cancer Support has a free helpline that's open every day from 8am to 8pm.

They're there to listen if you have anything you want to talk about.

Call: 0808 808 00 00

Next steps

If you've been told you have anal cancer, you may need some scans.

These, along with the tests you've already had, will help the specialists find out the size of the cancer and how far it has spread (called the stage).

The specialists will use the results of these tests and work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you.

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: stages and types of anal cancer

Sexual Health Advice

Throughout this series we have help and advice on staying healthy, dealing with Sexually Transmitted Infections, the risks of each type of the most popular gay sex and what to do if the sex you have is not consentual. The topics covered in this series include:

	This item was in brought to you association with NHS website. Follow the links above for more information and don't forget to check out OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health which features items on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. This week our topic is: L - Lung Cancer.
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