*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.

Tests And Next Steps

Main tests for anal cancer

You might have some tests and scans to check for anal cancer if a GP refers you to a specialist.

The tests you have will depend on your symptoms.

The tests may include:

putting a thin tube with a camera and light into your bottom to check for any changes
taking a small sample from your anus (biopsy) so it can be looked at in a laboratory under a microscope
blood tests

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: tests to diagnose anal cancer

Getting your results

You should get the results of your tests within a few weeks.

Try not to worry if your results are taking longer than you expected. You can call the hospital or GP if you're worried. They should be able to update you.

A specialist will explain what the results mean and what will happen next. You may want to bring someone with you for support.

If you're told you have anal cancer

Being told you have anal cancer can feel overwhelming. You may be feeling anxious about what will happen next.

It can help to bring someone with you to any appointments you have.

A group of specialists will look after you throughout your diagnosis, during and after treatment.

Your team will include a clinical nurse specialist who will be your main point of contact during and after treatment.

You can ask them any questions you have.

Macmillan Cancer Support has a free helpline that's open every day from 8am to 8pm.

They're there to listen if you have anything you want to talk about.

Call: 0808 808 00 00

Next steps

If you've been told you have anal cancer, you may need some scans.

These, along with the tests you've already had, will help the specialists find out the size of the cancer and how far it has spread (called the stage).

The specialists will use the results of these tests and work with you to decide on the best treatment plan for you.

Find out more

Cancer Research UK: stages and types of anal 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.