Anal Cancer
Anal Cancer Risk Factors and Prevention

How to Prevent Anal Cancer

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Preventing anal cancer starts with making choices that reduce risk. While no one can eliminate risk entirely, you can take meaningful steps to protect your health. Here are three powerful ways to lower your risk of anal cancer: getting vaccinated for HPV, practicing safer sex, and adopting healthy lifestyle habits.

HPV Vaccination: Protecting Yourself Against a Leading Cause of Anal Cancer

HPV (human papillomavirus) is linked to over 90% of anal cancer cases, making vaccination one of the most effective ways to lower your risk.

  • How the HPV Vaccine Works: The HPV vaccine protects against high-risk strains of HPV that most often cause cancers, including anal, cervical, and some head and neck cancers. By preventing HPV infections, the vaccine also lowers the chance of cell changes that can lead to cancer.

  • Who Should Get Vaccinated: Routine vaccination is at 11 or 12, and it can start as early as 9. If you weren't vaccinated then, catch-up runs through age 26.

    Between 27 and 45 it isn't a blanket recommendation, but it’s worth a conversation. The vaccine works best before exposure, so the benefit is smaller at this age. Whether it makes sense for you depends on your history, and that's a discussion for your provider.

  • How Many Doses: Two if you start before your 15th birthday. Three if you start at 15 or later.

    Three regardless of age if you're immunocompromised, including if you're living with HIV.

  • About getting it as an adult: The largest trial of HPV vaccination in adults over 27 living with HIV didn't find that it prevented new anal HPV infections. That doesn't make it pointless. It may still be a reasonable choice for you, particularly if you've had less prior exposure.

  • Where to Get the Vaccine: Most primary care offices, many pharmacies, and community health centers. LGBTQ+ health centers often stock it and may know which assistance programs you qualify for.

    If cost is the barrier: Vaccines for Children covers people under 19 who are uninsured or underinsured. For adults, ask about the manufacturer's patient assistance program or check with your local health department

  • Why It Matters: Getting vaccinated not only protects you but also helps reduce the spread of HPV in your community. The more people who are vaccinated, the less likely HPV is to spread, lowering cancer risks for everyone.

If you haven’t been vaccinated yet, talk to your healthcare provider about whether the HPV vaccine is right for you.

One note on timing, as of September 2026. Federal vaccine schedule recommendations are currently the subject of a court case. A January 2026 change cutting HPV to a single dose was blocked in March 2026, so the two-and-three-dose schedule above is what stands. We'll update this page if that changes.

Practicing Safer Sexual Health

Since HPV spreads through skin-to-skin contact, safe sex practices can lower your chances of contracting the virus. Here’s how you can protect yourself and reduce your risk:

  • Use Condoms and Dental Dams: Protection, like condoms or dental dams, can lower the chances of HPV and other STI transmission. While they don’t eliminate risk completely, they reduce the chances of exposure significantly.

  • Get Regular STI Screenings: Routine STI screenings help you stay on top of your sexual health. Knowing your status helps you make informed decisions about prevention and treatment. Regular screenings are especially important if you have multiple partners or if you or your partner(s) are in higher-risk groups.

  • Have Open Conversations with Partners: Talking about sexual health and prevention with your partners is an important way to feel comfortable and protected. HPV can spread even with one partner, so discussing risks and prevention together can make a difference.

  • Consider Limiting Sexual Partners: Having multiple partners increases the chances of HPV exposure. Limiting partners, especially if you’re in a high-risk group, can reduce this risk.

Practicing safer sex doesn’t eliminate the risk of HPV entirely, but it can significantly lower your exposure and help protect both you and your partners.

Healthy Lifestyle Choices

A strong immune system helps the body fight infections, including HPV. By making healthy lifestyle choices, you can strengthen your immune system and lower your risk of cancer. Here are some simple steps you can take:

  • Quit Smoking: Smoking weakens the immune system and increases the chance that HPV infections will cause harmful cell changes. Quitting smoking can have an immediate positive impact on immune health. If you need support, look into local quit programs, support groups, or nicotine replacement options.

  • Eat a Balanced Diet: Eating a variety of fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean proteins gives your body the nutrients it needs to fight infections. Foods rich in antioxidants, like berries and leafy greens, support immunity. Avoiding processed foods and added sugars can also help maintain a strong immune system.

  • Exercise Regularly: Physical activity supports immune health, improves circulation, and enhances overall well-being. Even moderate activity, like a 30-minute walk, a few times a week, can make a difference.

  • Manage Stress: Chronic stress can weaken your immune system. Practicing relaxation techniques, like deep breathing, meditation, or journaling, can help you manage stress and support your health.

  • Get Enough Sleep: Quality sleep is essential for a healthy immune system. Aim for 7–9 hours each night to help your body recover and stay strong.

Preventing anal cancer is about making informed choices. By getting vaccinated, practicing safer sex, and prioritizing healthy habits, you can reduce your risk and protect your health. Finding affordable resources like community clinics, support groups, and vaccination programs can make a big difference. Taking these preventive steps is a powerful way to invest in your future health and well-being.