Bowel Cancer Australia eNews: Wellness Beyond Diagnosis / Include A Charity Week / A New Approach To Anal Cancer Screening

A new approach to anal screening?
90% of anal cancers are caused by a particular strain of the human papillomavirus (HPV) that can lead to pre-cancerous cells (HSIL) inside or around the anus in a similar way to cervical HPV causing pre-cancerous changes in the cervix. However, unlike with cervical HSIL, there is currently no routine screening or treatment for anal HSIL.⁠

⁠In a new study, the Anal Cancer-HSIL Outcomes Research (ANCHOR) trial led by the University of California San Francisco, on 4,459 participants – people living with HIV (PLWHIV) aged 35 and older, who had biopsy proven anal HSIL – the rate of progression to anal cancer was 57% lower in those who received treatment for anal HSIL compared to those who had active monitoring without treatment. ⁠

⁠Colorectal surgeon, Dr Penelope De Lacavalerie, says “the trial demands a response from the health system so that we can start anal screening in this high-risk group (PLWHIV) nationwide and prevent anal cancers and deaths.”

"Three months ago, I was diagnosed with Stage 3 bowel cancer after a 61mm tumour was found in my rectum during a routine endoscopy and colonoscopy.
I celebrated my 38th birthday on the day of my 11th session for my Radiotherapy treatment program.
Treatment is going ok so far, and it is definitely something that I never expected to do considering I have always been a relatively healthy young guy.
I am fortunate to have a great medical team who have a plan - it will take time but we are all hoping for a positive result.” ~ Robbie.
You’re invited to join The Movement, Bowel Cancer Australia's closed nurse moderated Facebook Group, supporting bowel cancer patients to wellness beyond diagnosis.
As an active member of the Group, Robbie regularly shares his personal story to support other people living with or beyond the disease and help raise awareness that you’re never too young to have bowel cancer.
The Movement is a place for patients and carers to connect with others who have their own lived experience with monthly expert guest presenters and face-to-face informal online coffee catch-ups.
To join The Movement head to the Facebook Group here.

On the latest The Bottomline Podcast, Jessica explains how her diagnosis hit her for a six, despite knowing that the daily presence of blood in her stool was just not normal and the implications of surgery and fertility.
Jessica was juggling life as a new Mum and a promotion at work when she was diagnosed with stage 2 bowel cancer aged just 33.
Now a passionate advocate for raising young-onset bowel cancer awareness, Jessica discusses with Stephanie the importance of prioritising yourself and being a champion for your own health.