FOR PATIENTS & SURVIVORS WITH HPV+ CANCER

Know More.
Worry Less.

About HPV+ Anal Cancer.

Approximately 90% of anal cancers are caused by HPV, making HPV+ anal squamous cell carcinoma (HPV+ ASCC) one of the most common HPV-driven cancers in the United States. Incidence has been rising in recent years, with roughly 10,000 new cases diagnosed annually. HPV+ ASCC affects twice as many women as men.

The good news is that chemoradiotherapy (CRT)—the combination of chemotherapy and radiation—is highly effective as a primary treatment for most patients with HPV+ ASCC, and many achieve a complete response. But recurrence after treatment remains a real risk and catching it early can make a meaningful difference in what treatment options are available.

Studies show that 20–30% of HPV+ anal cancer patients may experience persistent disease or recurrence after treatment. Most recurrences occur within the first two years, which is why regular surveillance during the first years after treatment is so important.

Earlier Detection.

Published studies show that the NavDx® test can detect HPV+ anal cancer recurrence earlier than standard surveillance methods. In a multi-institutional study of 117 patients, the NavDx test detected recurrence a median of ~2 months before it was identified by clinical exam or imaging.4

That time matters. When recurrence is found earlier:

  • More treatment options may be available
  • Sphincter-preserving surgery, which protects quality of life, may be possible in place of more extensive procedures
  • The chance for successful salvage treatment may be greatest when tumor burden is lowest

Fewer Inconclusive Results. Clearer Answers.

One of the most anxiety-producing experiences during post-treatment surveillance is an inconclusive result, when a scan or physical exam leaves your care team uncertain about what they are seeing. That uncertainty can mean more tests, more waiting, and sometimes an invasive procedure just to get clarity.

Because the NavDx test looks for a specific, measurable marker in your blood rather than interpreting images, inconclusive results are rare. Presented here (right) is a comparison with standard surveillance methods in a study of HPV+ anal cancer patients.4

The NavDx test was also able to accurately resolve 94.3% of the inconclusive findings from imaging and digital anorectal exam (DARE), giving those patients and their Providers clarity on their cancer status with a single blood draw.4

Greater Assurance and Peace of Mind.

For many patients, the reassurance of a negative NavDx test result is just as valuable as catching recurrence early. Because NavDx testing is highly accurate, a negative result means a very strong likelihood that there was no detectable disease at the time of testing.

Research in HPV+ cancer patients has shown that negative test results can significantly lower fear of cancer recurrence—a measurable reduction in distress and anxiety after receiving a negative result.41 NavDx testing doesn’t just detect recurrence. When results are negative, it can actively improve your confidence and quality of life between surveillance visits.

How Often Will I Need Testing?

Your Provider will determine the schedule that is right for your specific situation, but the following reflects the general testing interval allowed by Medicare in surveillance, which is similar to published follow-up guidelines.

You don’t have to navigate this alone.

Life after treatment for HPV+ anal cancer comes with questions, emotions, and practical challenges that go beyond the clinic. Whether you’re looking for connection with others who understand what you’ve been through, guidance on managing side effects, help with financial concerns, or simply someone to talk to, support is available. Visit the organizations below for a variety of resources for HPV+ anal cancer patients and their caregivers. These organizations are independent of Naveris but share our commitment to helping patients live well after cancer treatment.

24/7 hotline (800-227-2345), anal cancer discussion board, Hope Lodge lodging, transport to treatment, financial referrals.

Visit American Cancer Society →

Peer-to-peer patient matching, support groups, clinical trial navigation, patient hotline; founded by anal cancer survivors.

Visit Anal Cancer Foundation →

Free counseling, support groups, financial assistance; dedicated Coping with Anal Cancer booklet, and more.

Visit CancerCare →

Support groups, patient support helpline, and educational & digital resources for patients, caregivers, and providers.

Visit Cancer Support Community →

LGBTQ+-focused, PrideCare program: community and virtual support groups, mental health, education & more.

Visit Cheeky Charity →

100+ private support groups, including Analwise, a dedicated anal cancer group; peer consultation, clinical trial info.

Visit Colontown →

Evidence-based information on HPV-related infection, new research, and cancer prevention & treatment.

Visit HPV Cancers Alliance →

Free, personalized one-on-one cancer support for cancer fighters, survivors, and caregivers.

Visit Imerman Angels →

Free patient-language booklets that help people with cancer understand the best treatment options for their disease.

Visit National Comprehensive Cancer Network (NCCN) Patient Resources →

Anal cancer prevention, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, clinical trial matching, and patient education.

Visit National Cancer Institute →

Resources for financial assistance, insurance navigation, and case management.

Visit Patient Advocate Foundation →

Coverage and Financial Assistance.

NavDx testing is covered by a growing number of commercial insurance companies, as well as Medicare for specific indications. Financial assistance is available to those who qualify.

Learn More

References

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