Journal of Surgery Concepts & Practice >

2026 , Vol. 31 >Issue 02: 100 - 107

DOI: https://doi.org/10.16139/j.1007-9610.2026.02.02

Editorial

Prevention and screening of HPV-associated anal cancer: current status, challenges, and future perspectives

  • SHEN Jie ,
  • JU Xingyu ,
  • ZHENG Ying
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  • 1 Department of Cancer Prevention, Fudan University Shanghai Cancer Center, Shanghai 200032, China
    2 Department of Oncology, Shanghai Medical College, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China
    3 School of Public Health, Fudan University, Shanghai 200032, China

Received date: 2026-01-09

  Online published: 2026-06-23

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Abstract

Anal cancer is a malignancy closely associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection, with a rising incidence globally. Persistent infection with high-risk HPV acted as the core driver of anal tumorigenesis. Currently, strategies for the prevention and control of HPV-related anal cancer primarily revolve around primary prevention (HPV vaccination) and secondary prevention (screening of high-risk populations). Based on existing evidence, HPV vaccination served as the core of primary prevention and demonstrated clear efficacy in reducing the incidence of anal intraepithelial neoplasia (AIN) by blocking persistent high-risk HPV infection. Regarding secondary prevention, domestic and international guidelines have reached a consensus recommending standardized screening based on anal cytology, high-risk HPV testing, and anoscopy for high-risk groups, such as people living with human immunodeficiency virus(HIV) and men who have sex with men (MSM), to facilitate early detection and intervention.

Key words： Human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccination; Anal cancer; Primary prevention; Screening

Cite this article

SHEN Jie , JU Xingyu , ZHENG Ying . Prevention and screening of HPV-associated anal cancer: current status, challenges, and future perspectives[J]. Journal of Surgery Concepts & Practice, 2026 , 31(02) : 100 -107 . DOI: 10.16139/j.1007-9610.2026.02.02

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