Useful insights on gynaecological cancers

Gynaecological cancers refer to cancers that develop in the reproductive organs of women, including the ovaries, uterus, cervix, vulva, and vagina. These cancers can be very serious, and early detection is critical to effective treatment and a positive outcome. Gynaecological cancers are relatively common, and every year, thousands of women are diagnosed with these types of cancer. In this article we will explore some of the common gynaecological cancers:

Preventive Oncology:

Prevention is better than cure. The primary prevention approach focuses on preventing disease before it develops.

Prophylactic vaccination against HPV aims to reduce the burden of HPV infection and HPV-related lesions (including both precancerous lesions and overt cervical cancer).

Screening is widely adopted to prevent cervical cancer. Screening is defined as the identification of early signs of a specific disease in apparently 'healthy' people who do not have any symptoms, to provide early detection and to reduce mortality. The adoption of Pap smear and HPV testing resulted in a significant increase in the diagnosis of cervical dysplasia and a significant decrease in cervical cancer.

Surveillance of high-risk women, with specific genetic patterns and positive family history are required in ovarian cancer.

Cervical Cancer:

Cervical cancer is a form of cancer that affects the cells of the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus. It is one of the most common types of cancer in women and can be caused by various factors such as HPV infection and a weak immune system.

Vulvar Cancer:

Vulvar cancer is a type of cancer that affects a woman's external genital area, called the vulva. Some things that increase a woman's risk of developing vulvar cancer include getting older, having a skin condition on the vulva, having an infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV), and having a condition called vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN).

Ovarian & Fallopian Tube Cancer:

It affects the reproductive organs in a woman's body. The ovaries are the organs that produce eggs, and the fallopian tubes are the tubes that connect the ovaries to the uterus.

Vaginal Cancer:

Vaginal cancer is a type of gynecologic cancer that affects the vagina, which is the muscular tube connecting the uterus and the vulva.

Endometrial Cancer:

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It is the most common type of gynecologic cancer. Risk factors for endometrial cancer include increasing age, obesity, hormone replacement therapy and a family history of the disease.

Gestational Trophoblastic Neoplasia (Occurs after Pregnancy/Abortion):

Gestational trophoblastic neoplasia (GTN) is a group of cancers that affects the tissue that normally forms the placenta during pregnancy. It occurs after pregnancy or abortion and can develop in women of any age.

Uterine Cancer:

In addition to endometrial cancer, there are other types of cancer that can develop in the uterus, such as sarcomas which are cancers of the muscle in the uterus.

Now, let us discuss some of the useful insights on gynaecological cancers: 

• Early detection is key: Many gynecologic cancers have no symptoms in their early stages, making regular screening tests, such as pelvic exams and Pap tests, essential for early detection.
• Risk factors: Certain factors, such as increasing age, personal or family history of gynecologic cancer, use of hormonal replacement therapy, and certain lifestyle choices, can increase the risk of developing gynaecological cancer.
• Symptoms: Symptoms of gynaecological cancers can include pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, unusual bleeding and fatigue. However, these symptoms can also be caused by non-cancerous conditions, so it's important to seek medical attention if they persist.
• Treatment options: Treatment options can include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, targeted therapy and immunotherapy. The choice of treatment depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's age and overall health.

Let us discuss some of the treatment options here:

1. Surgery: Surgery may be used to remove all or part of a tumour.
2. Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy x-rays or other types of radiation to kill cancer cells. The radiation passes through the body and damages their DNA, which causes them to die-it's also used to shrink large tumours before surgery so that they're easier for doctors to remove completely.
3. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is often given into a vein through an intravenous line to kill any cancer cells.
4. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy is a type of cancer treatment that helps your immune system fight cancer. It is an effective form of treatment that adds benefit in survival.
5. Targeted therapy: Refers to the use of targeted drugs for treatment. These drugs can specifically combine with the carcinogenic sites to induce specific death in cancer cells.

• Importance of support: Dealing with a cancer diagnosis can be emotionally and physically challenging, so it is important for women to seek support from family, friends, and healthcare providers. Joining a support group can also provide a sense of community and help women connect with others facing similar experiences.
• Recurrence of gynaecological cancer: If a patient is diagnosed with a recurrence, it means that the cancer has come back and needs to be treated again. It's important to know that even if a patient has had a recurrence, there are many treatment options available. The doctor will recommend treatments based on the specific situation and health history.
• Palliative treatment: Palliative care is a powerful adjunct to oncology that adds distinct value to the physical, mental, and psychosocial well-being of patients living with cancer. Palliative care is an integral component of the comprehensive care for patients in oncology. It encompasses the symptomatic management of end stage cancers, pain management, palliative chemotherapy, palliative radiation therapy, palliative surgeries.
  

Are you looking for the best cancer hospital in Kolkata? 

At Peerless Hospital, we are committed to providing the best possible care for patients with cancer. Whether you are looking for cervical cancer treatment or treatment for any other cancer, our oncology department offer the latest advances in cancer treatment, including state-of-the-art technology and innovative therapies. To book an appointment, call us at +91 33 4033 3333.