GYN Cancer is One of the Ten Most Common Women's Cancers

GYN cancer (cancer of the female reproductive system, includes endometrial or uterine, cervical, vaginal, vulvar, and peritoneal cancer) is one of the ten most common cancers diagnosed in women. Ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer in women, ranking number four in causes of women’s cancer deaths, preceded only by lung, breast, and colon cancer. The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that there will be about 22,220 new cases of ovarian cancer in this country in 2005, and approximately 16,200 women will die of the disease.

According to the ACS, the good news is that the rate of ovarian cancer has gone down since 1991. Several factors can increase your risks for developing ovarian cancer. However, having one or several risk factors does not mean that you will get cancer, only that you have a higher risk of development. Knowing your risk factors is your first, and sometimes your best, defense against developing this disease.

Know your risk factors
Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors Include:

Age – 50% of ovarian cancers are found in women over 65.

Obesity – Risk increases in women who are overweight.

Menstrual periods – Women who began early menstruation (before age 12) or went through menopause after age 50 have a small increased risk.

Late childbirth – Women who have not had children or delivered their first child after age 30 have a small increased risk.

Infertility – Studies have found there is a slight increased risk for women who are infertile.

Family history – Risk is higher for women who have a close relative who have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Breast cancer – Breast cancer patients have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Talcum powder – Studies have shown a slight increase in ovarian cancer among women who use talcum powder on the genital area.

Estrogen replacement therapy (ERT)- Some studies suggest that long-term use (10 years or more) of ERT after menopause may slightly increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Symptoms
Ovarian cancer symptoms are somewhat vague but may include:

Abdominal swelling from fluid buildup

Abnormal or unusual vaginal bleeding

Pelvic pressure

Back or leg pain

Intestinal problems such as gas, bloating, long-term stomach pain, or indigestion

What you can do…

See your health care provider annually for a complete pelvic exam.

Maintain a healthy body weight.

Discuss your cancer risk factors and family history with your health care provider and, if warranted, make an appointment with a genetic counselor.

If you have been on long-term ERT discuss alternatives with your health care provider.

Do not use talcum powder in genital area.

Make an appointment with your health care provider if you are experiencing any of the following:
— vaginal bleeding between periods or postmenopausal bleeding
— pelvic pressure or leg and back pain
— unusual abdominal bloating or changes in bladder or bowel
For more information contact the Women’s Health Resource Center at 415-600-0500. www.cpmc.org/women/