*Welcome to the OutUK series looking at gay men and their health brought to you in association with the NHS* website.**
	Each week we'll tackle a different topic in our A to Z of Gay Health. We'll have features and advice on everything from relationships, sexual health, mental and physical conditions and how to stay fit. You can follow any of links provided below for more information direct from the NHS website, or see this week's feature L: Laxatives.

Symptoms

Main symptoms of anal cancer

Symptoms of anal cancer can include:

Anal cancer may have no symptoms at all, or they might be hard to spot.

Anal cancer symptoms are often similar to piles (haemorrhoids) and anal fissures, which are common and less serious conditions.

These symptoms are very common and can be caused by many different conditions.

Having them does not definitely mean you have anal cancer. But it's important to get them checked by a GP.

This is because if they're caused by cancer, finding it early means treatment is more likely to be successful.

The GP will ask you some questions about your health and your symptoms.

They may feel your tummy and insert a gloved finger into your bottom to feel for lumps or anything wrong.

After the GP examines you, they may refer you to see a specialist in hospital if they think more tests are needed.

You'll receive an appointment, usually within 2 weeks, if you have certain symptoms. This does not definitely mean you have cancer.

OutUK's A to Z of Gay Health continues and you can read this week's feature L: Laxatives. We have covered many subjects in this series and you can catch up with all of our Previous A to Z Features. If you want to find out more about this particular topic you can visit the Original article on the NHS website. If you are worried by any aspect of your health make sure you go and see your doctor or book an appointment at your local clinic.
Photos: LightFieldStudios and one of VladOrlov, Stockcube, darak77, ajr_images or rawpixel.com.