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Why it matters

The last 3 centimetres matter

We all have one ... and yet many people start to flinch at the very word: anus. But why this shame when it's just a completely normal part of the body? A silence with consequences. Because if you are already ashamed to even mention it, how likely are you really to have yourself checked out by a doctor? One of the reasons why anal cancer often gets diagnosed too late. A small body part that plays a big role - and should get the same amount of attention as any other. And talking about it can literally save lives.

Anal cancer is often misunderstood and overlooked. Stigma, embarrassment, and confusion keep too many people from speaking up about symptoms or seeking support. Yet every year, thousands across Europe are affected1, and many wait too long for answers. It is time to talk about anal cancer, which is a cancer that grows in the last 3 centimetres of the digestive tract. The Anal Cancer Support and Advocacy Partners (ASAP) coalition brings together relevant patient organisations, health care professionals, and policy makers from across Europe. Our goal is to reduce stigma, provide clear information for the public, and support both patients and health professionals.

Let us make anal cancer a socially acceptable topic and start an open conversation. Whether it is questions around it or sharing complaints - it is time to finally talk about it!
Because anal health concerns us all and prevention is key!

Did you know...

The average human anus is 3 centimetres long. 2

Search Engines often do not answer you when you use the word "anal" because they assume a sexual context that is deemed inappropriate.

The number of people diagnosed with anal carcinoma continues to rise - preventive care and early action can make a crucial difference! 1

Person raising awareness

Image generated for illustrative purposes only.
Does not depict real patients or healthcare professionals.

More information

Anal cancer is rare but increasing in incidence in several European regions.3 Our campaign centres on "the last 3 centimetres": a simple but powerful way to open up the conversation.

Why focus here? The last 3 centimetres of the digestive tract is the anal canal.2 Cancer can develop there but it is often not well known. It is a vital area often ignored due to discomfort or embarrassment. By bringing attention to this small but significant part of the body, we can:

  • Encourage early recognition of symptoms, such as bleeding, itching, or pain. It can be confused with haemorrhoids.2
  • Make the conversation medical, not embarrassing.
  • Help people understand that anal cancer can affect anyone, and acting early can make all the difference.
  • Raise awareness that Human Papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination can prevent anal cancer; HPV causes >90% of anal cancer.1
References
  1. Robert Koch-Institut. Krebs in Deutschland. https://www.krebsdaten.de/Krebs/DE/Content/Publikationen/Krebs_in_Deutschland/krebs_in_deutschland_2023.pdf?__blob=publicationFile (last accessed on 09.02.2026).
  2. Leitlinienprogramm Onkologie. Patientenleitlinie Analkarzinom. https://www.leitlinienprogramm-onkologie.de/fileadmin/user_upload/Downloads/Patientenleitlinien/Patientenleitlinie_Analkrebs_167v100.pdf (last accessed on 09.02.2026).
  3. Islami F, et al. Int. J. Epidemiol. 2017;46(3):924–938. doi: https://doi.org/10.1093/ije/dyw276 .