6 Early Warning Signs of Anal Cancer That You Shouldn’t Be Embarrassed to Talk About

3. A Noticeable Lump or Growth

A lump or mass near the anus is another early warning sign that should not be ignored.

What to Look For:

• Small, painless lump near the anal opening.
• Growth that becomes sore over time.
• A feeling of fullness or obstruction when passing stool.

Tip:
Do not assume it is just a wart or hemorrhoid. A doctor can perform a quick examination to determine what it is.

4. Changes in Bowel Habits

Persistent changes in how you pass stool may indicate a problem.

Warning Signs Include:

• Narrower-than-usual stools (“pencil-thin” stool).
• Difficulty controlling bowel movements (leakage).
• Chronic diarrhea or constipation without a clear cause.

Why It Matters:
These changes can happen when a tumor partially blocks the anal canal.

5. Persistent Itching (Pruritus Ani)

Anal itching can be caused by many harmless conditions — but when it doesn’t go away with hygiene measures or over-the-counter creams, it deserves medical attention.

Possible Cause:
Tumor growth may irritate nerve endings and skin around the anal area.

6. Swollen Lymph Nodes in the Groin

In more advanced cases, cancer cells may spread to nearby lymph nodes.

What to Feel:

• Firm, painless lumps in the groin.
• Persistent swelling that does not go away.

Action:
Swollen lymph nodes are not always cancer, but they are a sign that your immune system is fighting something — and should be checked.