Bowel incontinence and needing to visit the toilet more often are tell-tale signs of a rare cancer that is often mistaken for piles, experts are warning. Anal cancer sufferers often experience symptoms similar to those of piles and haemorroids such as bleeding from the bottom, and needing to empty their bowels more often with looser, runnier stools.
Now experts are urging people to be aware of the common warning signs and to not let embarrassment prevent them from seeking treatment. Dr Pavel Vitek, a radiation oncologist from Proton Therapy Center in Prague, said: “Anal cancer is one of the rarer types in the UK, with around 1,500 new cases each year.
“Its symptoms can often be mistaken for more common and less serious illnesses such as piles and haemorrhoids, but it should not be taken lightly. Common red flags include needing to visit the toilet more often with looser, runnier stools and finding blood, itching or pain around the anus.
