Proctology is the study and treatment of disorders of the rectum, anus, colon and pelvic floor. A proctologist is a physician who treats problems such as hemorrhoids, birth defects of the anal area, cancer of the colon and rectum, and injuries to the anus. Some of these conditions may require surgery. Also treated by this specialist are anal fissures, fecal incontinence, perianal warts or severe constipation conditions.

Doctor density varies by specialty and location. The United States has 14 practicing proctologists. Broken out by state, proctology doctor density in Arizona is 1, in California is 2, in Florida is 4, in Indiana is 1, in Maine is 1, in Missouri is 1, in New Jersey is 1, in New York is 1, in Ohio is 7, in Oklahoma is 1, in Pennsylvania is 4, in Texas is 2, and in Virginia is 1.