Anal cancer grows in the skin or lining just inside the anus. Because the area is packed with nerves, even a small tumor can shout loud and early.

Pain is the headline. It feels like a deep, steady throb or burning that gets worse when you sit, cough, or have a bowel movement.

Bleeding shows up early. Bright-red blood drips into the bowl or smears the toilet paper, often mistaken for hemorrhoids.

Itching or burning persists. The area feels raw and doesn’t calm down with creams or better hygiene.

A lump you can feel may appear. It’s usually firm, irregular, and grows slowly over weeks.

Discharge or wetness occurs. The tumor leaks mucus or pus, so underwear is damp or smells foul.

Late signs include a hard mass, inability to control stool, or swollen groin nodes—an alarm the cancer has spread.