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Anal cancer

Causes of anal cancer

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Most anal cancers are caused by human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus you can get from sex or skin-to-skin contact of the genital area.

It's not always possible to prevent anal cancer. Having the HPV vaccine, using a condom during sex and quitting smoking may help.

Page last reviewed: 11/03/2024
Next review due: 11/03/2027