Up to half of cancers of the female reproductive system can be prevented with HPV vaccination and regular visits to the gynecologist, including menopause.
This is reported by the Dr. Evin website.
The most common types of malignant tumors of the female reproductive system are cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and ovarian and fallopian tube cancer. They are diagnosed in about 115,000 women a year in the United States, and half of them are preventable.
Cervical cancer is most often diagnosed between the ages of 35 and 44, but young and older women are also at risk. It is the only gynecologic cancer against which vaccination exists. Children are vaccinated before they become sexually active, that is, between the ages of 11 and 12, but in some cases vaccination is indicated for people up to age 26.
The PAP test and HPV test can detect pre-cancer or cancer at an early stage when treatment is most effective.
Many women have no symptoms of cervical cancer but may include abnormal bleeding, including after sex, pain in the abdomen or pelvic area, and heavy vaginal discharge.
Endometrial cancer is a disease affecting the mucous membrane of the uterus, which in most patients is diagnosed after the age of 50. The most common manifestation is bleeding from the vagina after the onset of menopause. Obesity and sedentary behavior can increase the risk of the disease.
Ovarian and Fallopian tube cancer most often starts on the surface of the ovaries or in the tubes that carry eggs from the ovary to the uterus. It rarely occurs in women younger than 40 years of age and most often develops after menopause. Up to 25% cases are associated with a high inherited risk.
The most common genetic mutation that causes hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome is BRCA. It can be detected through a blood or saliva sample. Women whose close blood relatives have had ovarian cancer may be prescribed medications or surgery that can prevent the disease from developing.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer include pelvic and/or abdominal pain, abdominal bloating, frequent urges to urinate, appetite problems or rapid satiety. Women who experience these symptoms for more than a few weeks should be evaluated by their primary care physician.
It is also advisable to learn that A new drug has been found for female infertility caused by PCOS.
