What Every Woman Must Know to Decrease the Risk of Gynaecological Cancers

What Every Woman Must Know to Decrease the Risk of Gynaecological Cancers

Gynaecological Cancers Cancers that affect the women's reproductive organs and genitals (uterine body, cervix, ovaries, Fallopian tube, vagina, and vulva) are termed gynaecological cancers. Though being largely preventable and highly curable at the early stages, it contributes to about 50% of all cancers affecting women and breast cancer. This article aims to provide you with basic information about the topic and the risk reduction endeavours involved.

Cervical Cancer Causes: Cervical cancer is caused by human papilloma virus (HPV), which is transmitted through sexual activity. This is the most common gynaecological cancer in India but has been noted to be decreasing globally.

Prevention: Safe sex practices and good genital hygiene are the factors for the prevention of this cancer. Vaccination,which provides 70% protection against the virus, is now available, and the one with 90% effectiveness is in the process of development.

Tests Involved: HPV attacks the body's immune system, and thus it can take several years for it to cause cancer. But the minor aberrations and the precancerous changes in the cell can be detected by a simple and painless test card PAP smear. It is ideal for women between 25 and 65 years to get screened for cervical cancer.

Endometrial Cancer Causes: Endometrial cancer develops in the uterus, and the cases have been noted to be increasing threefold in the past decade alone. This increase is believed to be caused by a sedentary lifestyle, polycystic ovarian syndrome, and low parity. Obesity, which can lead to chronic hormonal imbalance,,can also be a major cause.

Prevention: Adopting a healthy lifestyle and regularly checking on your weight can be preventive factors for endometrial cancer. Regular periods, being pregnant, and maintaining a normal body mass index (BMI) can also protect the body from this cancer.

Tests involved: There is no particular vaccine or screening test for endometrial cancer,but it presents itself in the early stages. Thus, it will be best to consult the gynecologist if you have symptoms like heavy menstrual flow or watery discharge.

Ovarian Cancer Ovarian cancer affects the ovary and is also a common gynaecological cancer.

Tests Involved: Though it is the most lethal of the lot, there is no effective screening test available which can aid the early detection. There aren't many interceptions you can make to prevent this cancer,but there are some risk reduction strategies.

Prevention: If your family has a history of ovarian or breast cancers, then contact your doctor to assess the possibility of a genetic mutation.

Usage of combined oral contraceptive pills can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Removal of the entire tube after undergoing tubal sterilization procedures can also help reduce the risk considerably. Any new dyspeptic symptom like abdominal bloating or lower abdominal pain should be evaluated immediately. Women who have a history of endometriosis and ovarian cysts should get an ultrasound and assessed in case of the slightest symptoms.

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