Gynecologic cancers are the tumor types that start in the reproductive organs of women. These consist of cancers of the cervix, ovaries, uterus, vulva, and vagina.
As per the American Cancer Society, over 114000 women in the US are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers.
In this blog, we will educate healthcare professionals on the unique risk factors of each type of gynecologic cancers. Besides, we will give evidence-based insights and guide early detection and prevention efforts.
What Are Gynecologic Cancers?
Gynecologic cancers are solid tumor types that form in the female reproductive system. The five main types are the following
Cervix
It is the lower part of the uterus that connects to the vagina
Ovaries
These are small organs that make hormones and eggs.
Uterus or womb
It is the part where a baby grows during pregnancy
Vagina
It is the birth canal
Vulva
The outer part of the female genitals
Each of these cancers grows differently and has its signs and causes. Let us look at them one by one.
Cervical Cancer by HPV
Cervical cancer is caused by a virus called HPV. So, this virus spreads through skin-to-skin contact during sex. Most of the time, the virus goes away on its own, but if it stays in the body, it can turn into cancer.
Risk factors for cervical cancer are the following.
- Having HPV for a long time
- Starting sex at a young age
- Smoking
- Weak immune system
- Not getting Pap or HPV tests
As per the CDC, HPV causes over 90 percent of cervical cancers; the HPV vaccine protects against most kinds of this virus. It is safe for boys and girls starting at age 11.
Ovarian Cancer Hard to Detect Early
Ovarian cancer grows in the ovaries and is often found late because it has very few early symptoms. It can be deadly if not caught in time.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer are the following.
- over 60 years old
- Having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Inherited genes such as BRCA2 and BRCA1
- Never pregnant
- Endometriosis
- Hormone therapy after menopause
Doctors should talk to women with family cancer history about genetic testing. This helps find out if they are at risk.
Uterine or Endometrial Cancer Linked to Obesity
Uterine cancer is mainly cancer of the endometrium. It is the lining of the uterus. It is the most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S. The American Cancer Society says about 69120 new cases are expected in 2025.
Risk factors for uterine cancer
- Being overweight
- Diabetes or high blood pressure
- Using estrogen without progesterone
- Being over age 50
- Family history of Lynch syndrome
Fat cells make extra estrogen, which can make the lining of the uterus grow too much and lead to cancer.
Vaginal and Vulvar Cancers Rare but Important
Vaginal and vulvar cancers do not happen as often, but they are still serious. Together they make up about 6 percent of all gynecologic cancers in the US.
Risk factors for vaginal cancer are the following.
- HPV infection
- Older age
- Past cervical cancer
- Smoking
Risk factors for vulvar cancer are the following.
- HPV infection
- Skin conditions like lichen sclerosus
- The immune system is weak
- Smoking
Doctors need to look for these areas during routine exams. It is mainly in older women.
Why Earlier Detection Matters
The most useful way to stop these cancers is to catch them early. So here are some simple ways to help.
Pap and HPV tests
It helps find cervical cancer early
HPV vaccine
It helps prevent cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers
Genetic testing
It allows for the detection of risk for uterine and ovarian cancers
Healthy lifestyle
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking is the key.
As per the National Cancer Institute, when these cancers are seen early, the 5 year survival rate is over 90% in multiple cases.
Conclusion
Gynecologic cancers can impact any woman, but the risk relies on many things such as age and family history. Also, the virus exposure. The best news is that many of these cancers can be stopped with vaccines. Also look for the regular checkups and healthy choices.
By understanding the unique risk factors associated with each cancer and utilizing reliable medical tools, healthcare workers can save lives. So it helps women of all ages.
