NHMRC opened the Targeted Call for Research (TCR) into Anal Cancer on 5 March 2025 and applications closed on 14 May 2025.

Over the past decade incidences of anal cancer in the general population have risen in Australia. Specific population groups such as people living with HIV, men who have sex with men, women with human papillomavirus (HPV) and people with autoimmune diseases are at higher risk of developing anal cancer. Additionally, HPV can be linked to many cancers, including anal cancer and while Australia has successfully used HPV tests to screen for cervical cancer, a similar screening program for anal cancer does not exist despite being an HPV-related cancer. Research on risk factors associated with anal cancer, the effectiveness of prevention and early treatment has improved outcomes for those at risk of or living with anal cancer.

This TCR was prioritised by the NHMRC Targeted Calls for Research Prioritisation Working Committee.  

Successful applications for this TCR will:

  • further develop the evidence base to inform prevention and health promotion activities such as screening and immunisation programs.
  • improve health literacy, decrease cancer related stigma and increase consumers’ participation in activities designed to prevent anal cancers.
  • better understand the efficacy, acceptability and potential of current cancer screening technologies and how they can be adapted for use in anal cancer and its precursors.
  • improve the accessibility of screening and treatment programs.  
  • further identify and understand the specific risk factors that contribute to the development of anal cancer.

The expected outcomes of this TCR are to:

  • stimulate research that informs health policies, technologies and health services for people at risk of or living with anal cancer.
  • reduce the inequity of outcomes for high-risk populations and improve health outcomes for people with anal cancer.