What is Cancer?

Cancer is a term used to describe a group of diseases characterized by the abnormal growth and division of cells in the body. The human body is made up of trillions of cells. Normally, these cells grow and divide in a controlled manner to replace old or damaged cells. When this process of cell division and death goes wrong, cancer starts. Cells divide and grow uncontrollably whereas the old cells which were programmed to die do not, resulting in cancer.

Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, accounting for nearly 10 million deaths in 2020, or nearly one in six deaths. Cancer can develop in almost any part of the body and can affect various organs and tissues. The exact causes of cancer can vary, but certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of occurrence. Regular medical check-ups, healthy lifestyle choices, and awareness of potential risk factors can contribute to reducing the risk of developing cancer or detecting it at an early stage when treatment is most effective.

Gynecologic Cancers

Gynecologic cancers encompass a group of malignancies that affect the female reproductive organs, including the ovaries, cervix, uterus, vulva, and vagina. In the United States, an estimated 100,000 women are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers each year. Gynecologic cancers result from the rapid growth and spread of abnormal cells in the pelvic (basement) region. According to the Centers for Disease Control (CDC), all women are at risk for developing gynecologic cancers, and the risk increases with age. Gynecologic cancers are often treatable when found early. Women need to understand risk factors, symptoms, and warning signs of gynecologic cancers to advocate for themselves and decrease late-stage diagnoses.

Sixty-two is the median age for gynecologic cancer diagnosis. Some gynecologic cancers have early symptoms, such as abnormal bleeding or pelvic pain. Early signs of gynecologic cancers can be subtle, making awareness and medical evaluation crucial. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes.

Pap tests cannot detect all gynecologic cancers. Pap tests mainly screen for cervical cancer, not other gynecologic cancers like ovarian or uterine cancer. While it can be challenging, awareness and regular screenings can aid in early detection of ovarian cancer. Cervical cancer is preventable through vaccination and regular screenings.

Gynecologic Cancer Information

Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, develops in the lining of the uterus called the endometrium. This type of cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, but it can also occur in younger individuals. Early detection and timely management are essential for better outcomes. There are two main types of uterine cancer: endometrioid adenocarcinoma, which accounts for the majority of cases, and less common types such as serous carcinoma, clear cell carcinoma, and carcinosarcoma. The exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease. It is anticipated that by 2040, endometrial cancer will become the deadliest form of gynecologic cancer amongst women

Risk Factors

Obesity
Hormonal imbalances (such as excess estrogen without enough progesterone)
Advanced age
Diabetes
Hypertension
History of endometrial hyperplasia (abnormal thickening of the uterine lining)
Certain inherited genetic conditions

Symptoms

Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Irregular vaginal bleeding
Abnormal vaginal discharge, pelvic pain or discomfort
A lump or mass in the vagina
Painful urination
Constipation

*These symptoms can also be caused by other conditions, so it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Prevention, Screening & Early Detection

There is currently no reliable screening test for the general population. You can reduce risk by exercising regularly, managing your blood pressure and blood sugar, managing your weight, and understanding your family history. Postmenopausal women are at a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer, but it can still occur in premenopausal women.

Endometrial cancer is not the same as uterine fibroids. Uterine fibroids are noncancerous growths, while endometrial cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the uterus.

Using birth control does not increase your risk of endometrial cancer. Certain types of birth control, such as oral contraceptives, can reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

Gynecologic Cancer Information

Select each tab above to learn about the types of gynecologic cancers, risk factors and symptoms, and prevention and detection; click the tabs below to explore further.

Prevention

Disparities

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Cervical Cancer

Cervical cancer is the second most common type of cancer in women worldwide, but it is also one of the most preventable and treatable forms of cancer if detected early. It primarily affects the cells lining the cervix, the lower part of the uterus/womb that opens into the vagina. It is the part of the uterus that dilates and opens fully to allow a baby to pass into the birth canal. The normal cervix has two main types of cells: squamous (or flat) cells, which protect the outside of the cervix, and glandular cells which are mostly inside the cervix, and produce the fluid and mucus commonly seen during ovulation.

The causes of cervical cancer are multifactorial however, persistent infection with the human papilloma virus (HPV) remains the most important and common cause. Most cases of cervical cancer are caused by persistent infection with certain types of the human papillomavirus (HPV), mostly type 16 and 18 through sexual intercourse.

Risk Factors

Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is the most significant risk factor for cervical cancer.
Not receiving the HPV vaccine increases the risk of HPV infection and subsequently cervical cancer.
Having multiple sexual partners
Smoking cigarettes or being regularly exposed to secondhand smoke damages the DNA of cervical cells and weakens the immune system
Long-term use of oral contraceptives
Previous history of pre-cancerous or cervical cancer
Lack of regular screenings/pap smears

Symptoms

Abnormal vaginal bleeding (can include bleeding between periods, after sexual intercourse, or after menopause)
Unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, bloody, or foul-smelling
Persistent pain in the pelvis, lower abdomen, or back
Pain or discomfort during sexual intercourse
Changes in urination or bowel movements

Prevention, Screening & Early Detection

Regular cervical cancer screenings and HPV vaccination are crucial for early detection and prevention. The HPV vaccine is a cancer prevention vaccine that can prevent many HPV related cancers including cervical cancer and is recommended for ages 9-45.

Pap smears might not detect all cervical cancers. Pap smears are effective at detecting pre-cancerous changes and early-stage cervical cancers, but they might not catch all cases. Regular screening and HPV testing can enhance early detection.

Cervical cancer can largely be prevented through regular screenings, HPV vaccination, safer sexual practices, and early treatment of pre-cancerous conditions. HPV (human papillomavirus) infection is the primary risk factor for cervical cancer, but even women who have never had sexual intercourse can develop cervical cancer if they're exposed to HPV.

Cervical cancer treatment success depends on various factors, including the stage of cancer at diagnosis. Early detection through screening significantly increases the chances of successful treatment.

Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer among women worldwide and the most deadly of all gynecological cancers. It primarily affects the ovaries, which are the reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones in women. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected in its early stages because symptoms may be vague or similar to other conditions. This can lead to a later-stage diagnosis when the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries. The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but certain risk factors increase the chances of developing the disease.

Risk Factors

Family history of ovarian, breast cancer or colorectal cancer
Age (most commonly diagnosed in women over 50)
Certain gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Never having been pregnant

Symptoms

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary urgency or frequency
Changes in bowel habits.

Prevention, Screening & Early Detection

Early detection of ovarian cancer can significantly improve prognosis and survival rates. However, there is currently no reliable screening test for the general population. People with a family history or genetic predisposition may undergo more frequent monitoring or genetic testing. Ovarian cancer has a high rate of recurrence, so ongoing monitoring and follow-up care are crucial even after successful treatment.

Pap smears primarily screen for cervical cancer, not ovarian cancer. There is currently no routine screening test for ovarian cancer. While ovarian cancer is more common in older women, it can affect women of all ages, including younger individuals.

A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) does not prevent ovarian cancer. A hysterectomy alone does not eliminate the risk of ovarian cancer. The ovaries should be removed (oophorectomy) to reduce the risk significantly.

While some cases are linked to inherited gene mutations (BRCA1, BRCA2), most ovarian cancers occur without a family history.

Vulvar Cancer

The vulva refers to the external genitalia of the female reproductive system. It includes several parts, such as the mons pubis (the fatty tissue over the pubic bone), labia majora and labia minora (outer and inner folds of skin), clitoris (a sensitive organ involved in sexual response), vaginal opening, and the perineum (the area between the vaginal opening and the anus). Vulvar cancer can develop in any of these structures. The most common type of vulvar cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, arising from the thin, flat cells on the vulvar surface. Other types include melanoma, originating from pigment-producing cells, and adenocarcinoma, starting in the glandular cells of the vulva.

Risk Factors

Increasing age
Infection with high-risk strains of human papillomavirus (HPV)
Smoking
History of precancerous vulvar conditions
Weakened immune system
Chronic vulvar skin conditions

Symptoms

Persistent itching of the vulva
Pain or tenderness in the vulvar region
A lump or mass on the vulva
Changes in color or thickness of vulvar skin
Open sores or ulcers on the vulva
Bleeding not related to menstruation
Changes in the shape or appearance of the vulva

Prevention, Screening & Early Detection

There is currently no reliable screening test for the general population. You can reduce risk by exercising regularly, managing your blood pressure and blood sugar, managing your weight, and understanding your family history. In the presence of a lesion or sore on the vulva, this should be biopsied to rule out cancer.

Vulvar cancer is relatively rare and accounts for a small percentage of gynecologic cancers. While the risk increases with age, women of all ages can develop vulvar cancer.

Not all lumps or bumps on the vulva are cancerous. Most lumps and bumps on the vulva are benign, but any new or unusual growth should be evaluated by a healthcare professional.

Vulvar cancer might cause symptoms like itching, pain, bleeding, or changes in the appearance of the vulva but Vulvar cancer is not always accompanied by noticeable symptoms.

Vaginal Cancer

Vaginal cancer is a rare malignancy that originates in the tissues of the vagina, the muscular canal connecting the uterus to the external genitals. It is essential to understand the key aspects of vaginal cancer, including its types, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment. Vaginal cancer is rare, accounting for approximately 1-2% of all gynecologic cancers in the United States, and according to the American Cancer Society, about 1 in every 1,100 women will develop vaginal cancer in her lifetime. The survival rates vary based on the cancer's stage at diagnosis, highlighting the importance of early detection and timely treatment.

The most prevalent type of vaginal cancer is squamous cell carcinoma, originating from the thin, flat cells lining the vagina. Another type is adenocarcinoma, which develops in the glandular cells of the vagina. Less common types include melanoma, sarcoma, and clear cell carcinoma.

Risk Factors

Advanced Age: Vaginal cancer incidence rises with age, with the majority of cases occurring in women over 60 years old
History of precancerous vaginal conditions
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection,
History of cervical or vulvar cancer
Smoking
Weakened Immune System: Individuals with compromised immune systems, such as those with HIV/AIDS or organ transplant recipients, are at higher risk

Symptoms

Vaginal bleeding after menopause
Irregular vaginal bleeding
Abnormal vaginal discharge
Pelvic pain or discomfort
A lump or mass in the vagina
Painful urination
Constipation

Prevention, Screening & Early Detection

Symptoms are often mistaken for common conditions such as yeast infections. Vulvar cancer is very rare but can be cured if detected early. If you are experiencing any symptoms, see your primary care provider, or preferably a gynecologist.

Vaginal cancer is relatively rare compared to other gynecologic cancers. While the risk increases with age, vaginal cancer can affect women of various age groups.

Early stages of vaginal cancer may not show obvious symptoms, highlighting the importance of regular screenings. Risk reduction measures, like safe sexual practices and HPV vaccination, can help lower the risk of vaginal cancer.