Study Challenges Traditional High-Risk Definitions, Calls for Updated Screening Guidelines
San Diego, CA — Anal cancer, once considered rare, is steadily increasing in the U.S., with the sharpest rises observed among older women—particularly white and Hispanic women—according to a study presented today at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2025.
The findings challenge long-held assumptions about high-risk groups and underscore the need for revised screening and prevention strategies.
Key Findings:
- Anal cancer incidence grew by 2.9% in women vs. 1.6% in men (2017–2021).
- White women over 65 saw the steepest increase (4.3% annually), reaching 11.4 cases per 100,000 in 2021.
- Hispanic women over 65 had the second-highest rate (7.5 per 100,000).
- If trends continue, cases among older women could double in under 17 years.
HPV: The Primary Culprit
Human papillomavirus (HPV) causes 90% of anal cancers, yet many older women were ineligible for early vaccination efforts. “Most women over 65 were past the recommended HPV vaccine age when it became widely available,” said lead author Dr. Ashley Robinson, an internal medicine resident at Advocate Lutheran General Hospital.
Screening Gaps
Current guidelines recommend anal cancer screening only for high-risk groups (e.g., people with HIV or immunocompromised conditions). However, this study suggests expanding criteria. “These women aren’t traditionally screened, yet their rates are climbing,” Robinson noted.
Call to Action
Researchers urge:
- Promoting HPV vaccination across all eligible age groups.
- Updating screening protocols to include older women with rising risk.
- Increasing awareness among providers about shifting demographics.
Expert Insight
“This isn’t just about data—it’s about saving lives,” said Dr. Elena Martinez, a gastroenterologist unaffiliated with the study. “If we ignore these trends, we’ll miss early detection opportunities.”
What’s Next?
The team plans to investigate underlying causes, including lifestyle factors and healthcare access disparities. For now, Robinson stresses: “Prevention is key. Vaccinate, educate, and advocate for inclusive screening.”
Presentation Details:
The study, “Analysis of temporal trends in anal cancer incidence by sex, age, and ethnicity” (Abstract 76), will be presented at DDW on May 3, 8:48 a.m. PDT. Learn more: www.ddw.org/press.
About DDW 2025
Digestive Disease Week® is the world’s largest GI health conference, featuring 6,000+ abstracts and 1,000+ lectures. Jointly hosted by AASLD, AGA, ASGE, and SSAT, it runs May 3–6 in San Diego and online.
