In the sexual health setting, clinicians are often asked by male and female clients about access to screening services for anal cancer and unfortunately there are very limited services providing this testing. The SPANC study contributes to the understanding of the natural history of anal HPV and is hopefully a step closer to forming guidelines and recommendations on routine screening for anal HPV.
Further consideration will then need to be given to treatment and management options, as current services are limited to mainly watch and monitor disease or surgical intervention which can have significant impacts on the client’s lifestyle and functionality
Author bio: I am currently acting in the CNC position for the Toowoomba Sexual Health and HIV service. My background has been in clinical positions in several sexual health services throughout the state over the last 12 years and I have a passion for best practice in this area. I have recently returned to work after having a few years of maternity leave.
