Gynecological cancers are common in women and reflect major public health concerns. In developing countries like India, there is a lack of awareness about cancer, different types of cancer, and inadequate screening facilities. This leads to most women being diagnosed at advanced stages which negatively impacts their prognosis and outcomes. The two most common gynecological cancers worldwide and in India are ovarian and cervical cancers (1). 

According to the ICO Information Centre on HPV and Cancer, roughly 122,844 women in India are diagnosed with cervical cancer each year (2). This illustrates the gravity of the situation. 

In this article, we bring forth some prevention methods that can help downsize the burden of gynecological cancers.

What are gynecological cancers, symptoms, and risks associated with them?

Gynecologic cancer refers to cancers that develop in a woman's reproductive organs, such as the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vagina, and vulva. The name of the cancer depends on where they form in the body. There are several risks associated with this health issue, including:

  • Family History: Certain genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can increase the risk of developing gynecologic cancer.
  • Obesity: Obesity can lead to higher estrogen production and chronic inflammation, which can increase the risk of gynecologic cancer.
  • Age: The risk of developing gynecologic cancer tends to increase with age (as per CDC, Centers for Disease Control and Prevention).
  • HPV (Human Papillomavirus): This sexually transmitted infection is strongly linked to gynecologic cancer (as per WHO and CDC).

Common symptoms of gynecologic cancers 

Symptoms can vary depending on the type of cancer. Here are some common signs and symptoms as per CDC:

  • Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge is common in most gynecologic cancers, except vulvar cancer.
  • Ovarian cancer symptoms include feeling full quickly, difficulty eating, bloating, and abdominal or back pain.
  • Pelvic pain or pressure can be a symptom of ovarian and uterine cancers.
  • Ovarian and vaginal cancers may cause more frequent or urgent needs to urinate and/or constipation.
  • Vulvar cancer may lead to itching, burning, pain, tenderness of the vulva, and changes in vulva color or skin, such as a rash, sores, or warts.

How to prevent gynecological cancers?

Preventing gynecological cancers is not entirely possible, but you can lower your risk and detect them early for better treatment outcomes. Here are some ways to help prevent gynecological cancers:

1) Pap Tests: Regular Pap tests are vital for screening cervical cancer. Combined with HPV testing, they can identify precancerous changes in the cervix before they turn into cancer. Scientists are also exploring the use of Pap tests for detecting ovarian and endometrial cancers.

  • Women aged 21 to 29 should have Pap tests every three years.
  • Women aged 30 and older should have Pap tests combined with HPV testing (co-testing) every five years.

2) HPV Vaccine: 

  • Vaccination against HPV is recommended for preteens aged 11 to 12, starting as early as age 9.
  • HPV vaccine is also recommended for everyone up to age 26 if not already vaccinated.
  • HPV vaccination is not recommended for those above age 26 as they are more likely to have already been exposed to HPV.

3) Genetic Testing: Genetic testing can determine if you have a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, which puts you at higher risk for ovarian and breast cancer.

4) Maintain a Healthy Diet and Lifestyle: Adopting a healthy diet and lifestyle, including quitting smoking, can help reduce the risk of gynecological cancers.

In conclusion: Gynecological cancers pose significant challenges to women's health globally, particularly in developing countries with limited resources for screening and awareness. Early detection through regular Pap tests can play a crucial role in prevention. HPV vaccination, genetic testing, and maintaining a healthy lifestyle further contribute to reducing the risk of these cancers.

Reference: 

1)  ICO Information Centre on HPV and Cancer (Summary Report 2014.08.22). Human Papillomavirus and Related Diseases in India; 2014

2) Maheshwari A, Kumar N, Mahantshetty U. Gynecological cancers: A summary of published Indian data. South Asian journal of cancer. 2016 Jul;5(03):112-20.Maheshwari, A., Kumar, N. and Mahantshetty, U., 2016. Gynecological cancers: A summary of published Indian data. South Asian journal of cancer, 5(03), pp.112-120.

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