Frequently Asked Questions
1. What is gynecologic cancer?
A group of cancers that affect the tissue and organs of the female reproductive system is Gynecologic cancer. There are five main kinds of gynecologic cancers–each named after the organ it originated in. They include:
- Ovarian cancer
- Cervical cancer
- Endometrial (Uterine) cancer
- Vulvar cancer
- Vaginal Cancer
2. What are the risk factors for developing gynecologic cancer?
Unfortunately, all women are at risk for developing gynecologic cancer and the risk increases with age. However, this does not necessarily mean that you will develop one of these cancers. Usually, different cancers have different risk factors. But, there are some common risk factors they share.
Risk Factors
- Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection
- Long-term use of oral contraceptives
- Being overweight or obese
- Poor nutrition
- Smoking
- Exposure to diethylstilbestrol (DES)
- Human immunodeficiency virus (HIV/AIDS) infection
Other risk factors that are not in your control
- Age
- Race.
Family history
3. What are gynecologic cancer symptoms?
Knowing the symptoms of gynecologic cancer can help you be aware of early warning signs. The symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Bloating and/or feeling of fullness
- Frequent or urgent bowel changes
- Pelvic pain
4. What are the survival rates for women with gynecologic cancer?
The survival rate depends on the type of malignancy, the stage, and its unique biology. Endometrial/uterine cancer is cured entirely. Surgery alone is therapeutic for most women with endometrial cancer, but radiation and occasionally chemotherapy can be used. Furthermore, cervical cancer is usually cured by surgery and/or radiation. It may be unexpected to discover there are many kinds of ovarian cancer. Some are curable by surgery and chemotherapy. In contrast, others are not, though treatments for all types of ovarian cancers can significantly prolong life, and the quality of life, for years.