By: centraljersey.com
Each year in the United States, thousands of women are told they have gynecological cancer. The diagnosis can be devastating for some, but when the cancer is detected and treated early, the majority of patients go on to live happy and healthy lives.
Understanding the facts about gynecological cancer and recognizing the early warning signs will give you the advantage when it comes to fighting – and beating – the disease.
The following is an overview of the six types of gynecological cancers and their symptoms. If you experience any of the symptoms, talk to your doctor right away.
Just as important, be sure to go for annual gynecologic exams, the best and often the only way to detect cancer in its earliest stages.
Cervical cancer – Even though it is the easiest cancer to prevent, an estimated 12,000 women are diagnosed with cervical cancer every year, according to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.
The disease is mainly caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a sexually transmitted virus that affects at least half of sexually active people at some point in their lives. Fortunately, not all women with the virus will develop cervical cancer.
Cervical cancer in its early stages may not cause any symptoms. Signs of advanced cervical cancer may include abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially after intercourse.
A routine Pap test is the best way to detect any changes in the cervix that may be cancerous or precancerous and is recommended for all women. In addition, an HPV screening can often detect the virus before it advances.
Doctors also recommend the HPV vaccine, which protects against the main types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. The vaccine – a series of three shots – is recommended for girls and women between the ages of 9 and 27.
If you are a young woman or the mother of an adolescent or teenage girl, ask your doctor about the HPV vaccine.
Ovarian cancer – Unlike cervical cancer, there is no way to prevent ovarian cancer. Moreover, there is no medically approved test to screen for ovarian cancer, as the Pap test screens for cervical cancer only. Risk for ovarian cancer increases with age. Other risk factors include a family history of ovarian cancer, previous personal history of breast, uterine or colorectal cancer, and Eastern European Jewish heritage.
The best approach to protecting against ovarian cancer is to pay attention to your body and to see your doctor if you notice any abnormal changes or experience any of the following symptoms:
– Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge.
– Pain or pressure in the pelvic or abdominal area .
– Feeling full quickly after eating.
– Back pain.
– Bloating.
– Urinary urgency or frequency.
– Constipation or diarrhea.
If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, genetic testing can help determine your susceptibility to developing cancer yourself. Your doctor will help you decide whether genetic testing is right for you.
Uterine cancer – Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women in the United States, affecting approximately 35,000 people a year. While all women are at risk for uterine cancer, the disease is most often found in menopausal and postmenopausal women.
Your risk for uterine cancer increases if you are obese or overweight; take hormone replacement therapy; take Tamoxifen for breast cancer; or have a family history of uterine, colon or ovarian cancer.
Signs and symptoms of uterine cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge and pain or pressure in your pelvis.
Unfortunately, there is no clear strategy for preventing uterine cancer. However, if you have a family history of the disease, talk with your doctor about genetic testing to help identify your risk.
Vaginal and vulvar cancer – Vaginal and vulvar cancers are largely uncommon, but women should still be aware of their risk for developing these diseases. HPV is the most common cause of vaginal and vulvar cancers, and as noted earlier, the virus can typically be prevented with a vaccine. Symptoms associated with vaginal cancer include abnormal bleeding or discharge; changes in bowel habits, and pain in your pelvis or abdomen, especially during urination or after intercourse. Signs of vulvar cancer may include itching, burning or bleeding of the vulva; changes in the area’s skin color; and persistent sores, lumps or ulcers.
Fallopian tube cancer – Fallopian tube cancer is extremely rare, accounting for just 1 percent of all gynecological cancers. Because it is so uncommon, the causes and risk factors for the disease are largely unknown.
Patients with fallopian tube cancer may complain of pelvic pain and abnormal bleeding. Consult your doctor if you experience these symptoms.
Treatment for gynecological cancer depends on the type and stage of the disease. If you are diagnosed with gynecological cancer, your doctor will likely refer you to a gynecologic oncologist for treatment.
When it comes to prevention and early detection, remember:
– Pay attention to your body and consult to your doctor about any unusual changes.
– Talk to your doctor about the HPV vaccine.
– Undergo annual gynecological exams.
Princeton HealthCare System, through its Community Education & Outreach Program, will host a discussion, "Women’s Health Update: Prevention & Early Detection of Gynecological Cancer," from 6:30 p.m. to 8 p.m. on Thursday, Jan. 20 at the UMCP Breast Health Center, 300B Princeton-Hightstown Road, East Windsor Medical Commons 2, East Windsor.
To register for the free session or for more information, visit www.princetonhcs.org/calendar or call (888) 897-8979.
To find a gynecologist affiliated with Princeton HealthCare System, call (888) 742-7496 or visit www.princetonhcs.org.
Eugene S. Gamburg, M.D., is board certified in obstetrics and gynecology and is a member of the medical staff at University Medical Center at Princeton.
