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Anal Cancer Research

Winship is a leader in anal cancer research. That means our patients get access to novel treatments before they’re commercially available.

Researching Anal Cancer Developing Novel Therapies at Winship

Cancer survival rates have improved over the past several decades, and they’re poised to continue to do so, thanks to research being done at leading cancer centers like Winship Cancer Institute of Emory University.

We’re honored to be one of only a few dozen National Cancer Institute (NCI)–designated Comprehensive Cancer Centers in the country — and the only one in Georgia — developing lifesaving cancer and, more specifically, anal cancer research initiatives.

Types of Anal Cancer Research

Much of anal cancer research is focused on prevention, screening, developing novel therapies and new treatment protocols, and Winship leads its fair share of clinical trials. As a matter of fact, we’re currently studying targeted therapies and new immunotherapy drugs for the treatment of advanced anal cancer. We also use outcomes research — which involves analyzing massive amounts of data to identify which treatments are working for anal cancer in patients across the country — to help inform our treatment decisions.

Of course, the development of new treatments is only part of the anal cancer research story. Winship gastrointestinal cancer researchers are leading the way and changing how the world prevents, detects, diagnoses, treats and survives anal cancers. We pioneer discoveries in the lab that are translated into the latest, most effective treatments in the clinic. Our bench-to-bedside research in anal cancers enables us to discover, develop and deliver game-changing procedures, technologies, diagnostics and treatments. As a result, Winship is advancing anal cancer research in every area, including prevention, diagnosis, treatment, side effect reduction, recurrence and more.

Anal Cancer Clinical Trials

Many Winship patients are eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Clinical trials are controlled studies that test new interventions on a disease, such as anal cancer. They offer participants early access to novel treatments that are not yet commercially available.

Participating in Anal Cancer Research

Clinical trials are the third step of a five-step process for testing new therapies as outlined by the Food and Drug Administration. By the time a therapy comes to clinical trial, it has been tested in a laboratory setting and has passed preclinical safety standards.

As a research center, our physicians and scientists will make every effort to match you with a clinical trial that targets your unique cancer. It’s best if you enroll from the very beginning, so let your doctor know on your first visit if you’re interested in learning more about a clinical trial. Most clinical trials are supplemental, meaning you’ll still receive the standard therapy in addition to any treatment being studied.

Support for Clinical Trial Participation

Winship conducts anal cancer research at the following locations:

We welcome trial participants from all over Georgia and beyond. Talk with your doctor about whether you are eligible to participate in a clinical trial. Our supportive oncology team can assist you with services, such as finding affordable accommodations near Winship for the duration of your clinical trial.