A concerning trend has emerged in the United States: a significant increase in anal cancer cases among women. A recent study presented at Digestive Disease Week (DDW) 2025 highlights a notable surge, notably among white and Hispanic women, groups not traditionally associated with this type of cancer.

The study, which analyzed data from the National Cancer Institute spanning 2017 to 2021, revealed an alarming upward trajectory. Over this five-year period, anal cancer diagnoses rose by 2.9% in women and 1.6% in men.

Shifting Demographics: Who is Affected?

the most striking aspect of this trend is the shift in demographics. The increase is most pronounced in groups with historically lower rates of anal cancer: white women and Hispanic women.

To clarify, the term Hispanic, as defined by the United States Census Bureau, encompasses individuals with cultural ties or heritage from Spanish-speaking countries, including Mexico, Puerto Rico, Cuba, and nations in Central and South america.

Expert Insights on the Rising rates

According to researchers,the most rapid increase in anal cancer cases is observed among white women and Hispanic women over the age of 65. The number of anal cancer has increased the fastest among white women and hispanic over the age of 65 years,groups that are traditionally not considered high risk, said Dr. Ashley Robinson, an internal medicine resident at the Advocate Lutheran general hospital.

Specifically,white women over 65 experienced a considerable increase of 4.3% over the past five years, reaching 11.4 cases per 100,000 people in 2021. hispanic women in the same age bracket showed a more gradual annual increase of 1.7%, with 7.5 cases per 100,000.

Future Projections: A Cause for Concern

If the current trend persists, researchers estimate a significant escalation in anal cancer cases among women over 65. Projections suggest that cases could multiply in less than 17 years.