Cervical & Gynecological Cancers

September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month. Gynecologic cancer is the growth and spread of cancer cells in the cervix, ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes, vagina and vulva. According to the American Cancer Society, 80,600 new cases of gynecologic cancer will be diagnosed nationwide this year with 27,400 deaths.

Quick Facts:

Warning signs and symptoms of gynecologic cancers vary depending on type, but may include:

-- Pain or pressure in the pelvic area

--Unusual vaginal discharge or bleeding

-- Frequent abdominal bloating or swelling

-- A sore that does not heal

Risk factors for gynecologic cancers vary depending on type, but may include:

-- Family history

-- Infertility

-- Advanced age

-- Obesity

Anything that increases a person's chance of developing a disease is called a risk factor. Although certain factors increase a woman's risk for developing gynecologic cancer, they do not always cause the disease.

• Age – Most gynecologic cancers develop in post-menopausal women (after age 60), though some cancers can strike women at much younger ages.
• Pharmaceuticals – Certain fertility drugs that failed to result in pregnancy may increase risk. DES, an estrogen drug (diethylstilbestrol) taken during pregnancy puts daughters at risk for a rare form of cervical and vaginal cancer. Tamoxifen increases risk.
• Genetics – If a family history of gynecologic or breast cancer exists, women may consider being tested since those found to carry certain genes known to cause gynecologic cancers are at greater risk.
• Reproductive history – Early onset of menstruation (before age 12), having no children or having a first child after age 30, and/or experiencing menopause after age 50 are risk indicators.
• Nutrition – A high-fat diet and obesity increase risk for endometrial cancer, especially those with Type I diabetes.
• Lifestyle – Sex before age 18, sleeping with numerous partners, or having a partner with a sexually transmitted disease (STD), such as HIV, or being a smoker all can increase one's gynecologic cancer risk.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) – Endometrial and ovarian cancer risk is increased with the prolonged use of HRT or estrogen replacement therapy (ERT).

*All women over age 18 should have a yearly Pap test (also known as a Pap Smear) and pelvic exam to establish a pattern of gynecologic health. Any unexpected bleeding or spotting should be brought to the attention of a gynecologist.

Have you had your pap this year?

Community leader for:

Women At Work & Cervical & Gynecological Cancers