The latest local news, weather and high school sports from the Heartland

KIRKSVILLE, MO. -- Anal cancer is on the rise in the United States with more than 6,000 cases reported every year.

Dr. Ralph Boling with the Gutensohn Clinic in Kirksville said the number of reported anal cancer cases in females has tripled since the 1970s. In his office, he said he sees on average one case every two to four years. The disease is contracted when partners infected with Human Papilloma Virus have anal sex and share the virus with each other, thus creating abnormal cells that turn into cancer.

"The cell types change at that point where the cells are making the accommodation for being exposed to air versus being exposed to our internal system, " said Dr. Boling.  "So that constant change going on, creates a place where tobacco, where HPV virus can take hold, a foot hold, and start changing our normal cells to abnormal cells. The cell line then becomes cancer in the individual."

Boling believes the increase in anal cancer can be attributed to the growing number of Americans being receptive to anal intercourse, which is allowing the virus to spread more freely.  Anal cancer can be treated if caught early. Boling said people should be open with their doctors about their sexual activities and ask for an anal or rectal screening if they think they have a problem.