Since some people with anal cancer have no known risk factors, there is no way to completely prevent this disease. But the best way to reduce the risk of anal cancer is to avoid HPV infection. While condoms (rubbers) can protect against HIV, recent research has shown that they do not totally protect against HPV. That is because this virus can be spread by skin contact from areas that are not covered by the condom. People can have HPV for years without having any symptoms. So it can be nearly impossible to know whether a sex partner is infected with HPV.

HPV vaccine

A vaccine called Gardasil^® can help protect against infection with HPV subtypes 16 and 18 (as well as 6 and 11). Right now it is only approved for use in women. It is being looked at for possible use in males. The hope is that it could help prevent cancers (such as anal cancer) that are linked to HPV.

Stopping smoking also lowers the risk of many types of cancer, including anal cancer.

Last Medical Review: 09/08/2009
Last Revised: 09/08/2009