Why Gynecologists Must Become Anal Cancer-Prevention Specialists.

Abstract

Anal cancer incidence is rising in the United States, with the fastest increases among older women, a population not traditionally considered high risk. Despite its shared human papillomavirus etiology with cervical cancer, clinical capacity for anal cancer screening and prevention remains limited, even though the disease is largely preventable. Gynecologists are uniquely positioned to address this preventable gap. The principles of anal cancer prevention correspond with established gynecologic practice. Expanding gynecologic presence in anal cancer prevention efforts represents a logical, workforce-ready strategy to detect and treat anal cancer precursors and thereby limit the incidence of cancer, though collaboration and a multi-disciplinary approach are key.