Anal cancer and stigma
People who have anal cancer have to deal with something more than just having cancer. That something more is stigma. Stigma describes the negative attitudes that we have toward someone or something that we see as unacceptable or undesirable. It it often based on unfair or inaccurate beliefs.
The stigma around anal cancer likely exists because the anus is where poop comes out, and because having receptive anal intercourse (receiving anal sex) and having many sexual partners increases the risk of the disease. People think talking about these body functions or activities is impolite or gross or that people who develop anal cancer somehow deserve it. These thoughts create and add to the stigma of anal cancer.
How stigma affects people with anal cancer
Stigma has a serious effect on people with anal cancer.
People may end up with a poorer prognosis because they avoid seeing a healthcare professional about their symptoms. People may ignore symptoms of anal cancer because they are too embarrassed to report them to their doctor, or they may avoid talking to healthcare professionals about sexual behaviours that increase the risk of anal cancer. This avoidance can lead to later diagnosis. Earlier diagnosis generally leads to easier and more effective treatment and better outcomes.
People with anal cancer report very high levels of cancer-related stress. This includes anxiety, depression, guilt, embarrassment and feeling isolated from other people. They also report pain, sexual problems and financial concerns.
They blame themselves. Self-stigma, or self-blame, is when you start to believe the stigma that others have about you. People with anal cancer feel self-stigma because of the negative ideas that surround anal cancer. If you feel ashamed or you worry that you might be rejected or blamed for your diagnosis, you might not want to tell anyone that you have anal cancer or you may be less likely to seek help when you need it.
These feelings of self-stigma in people with anal cancer can lead to:
delaying diagnosis and treatment, or not having treatment
- withdrawing from friends and family
- increased feelings of guilt, anxiety, shame, depression and anger
- stress in relationships
- poor quality of life
Coping with anal cancer stigma
Having any type of cancer is hard, but the stigma of anal cancer makes the experience even harder. These ideas can help you break down the stigma.
Learn about the disease. Find out more about the risks and treatments for anal cancer.
Share your story to teach other people. You can help reduce anal cancer stigma by letting people know that anal cancer can affect anyone. It affects you. But it's also OK to not want to talk about it all the time and to choose who you tell.
Remember no one deserves any kind of cancer, including anal cancer. Cancer is a disease, not a punishment. Anyone can be diagnosed with anal cancer. If you're diagnosed with it, you deserve to be treated with understanding, compassion and support.
Recognize and be honest about your feelings.You may find it hard to talk about anal cancer, stigma and your feelings. But being honest can help improve communication and make your relationships stronger. Learn more about coping with your emotions.
Find a support group. You may be able to find an anal cancer support group in your area or join a general cancer support group. Look online to find others living with anal cancer. These groups can help you talk about your feelings and frustrations.
Ask your healthcare team for a referral to a professional counsellor. A counsellor can listen to your fears or concerns, and offer ways to help you cope.