Gynecological Cancer
Understanding the causes and symptoms of gynecological cancers, effective treatment, improve survival rates
Gynaecological cancer refers to all cancers of the female reproductive system, including cervical cancer, uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, vulvar cancer, vaginal cancer and fallopian tube cancer. Gynaecological cancer can be asymptomatic in the early stage and the survival rate depends on the type of cancer. For example, in 2019, cervical cancer ranked 8th among the most common and fatal cancers among women in Hong Kong, accounting for 2.6% of female cancer deaths.
Women of almost any age are susceptible to gynecological cancers, and these diseases often present with no obvious symptoms in their early stages or early stages. Therefore, regular checkups and preventative measures are crucial. Waiting until symptoms appear before seeking medical attention may mean missing the optimal window for treatment. The best approach is to start a healthy diet from age 25, women who have been sexually active should begin regular Pap smears (cervical cell examinations) from age 25, and get vaccinated against HPV (cervical cancer) as early as possible.
In the early stages, gynecological cancers do not present obvious symptoms, but as they progress to later stages, the following symptoms may appear. If discomfort persists, immediate examination is recommended.
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Heavier and longer periods
- Bleeding after menopause
- Increased and persistent vaginal discharge
- Pain during or bleeding after sex
- Abnormal swelling of the body
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic cavity
- Abdominal pain or back pain
- Abnormal fatigue
- Bloating in the abdomen
- Change in bowel habits (diarrhoea, constipation, frequent urination)
Risk factors for gynaecological cancer
The hectic schedule of the urban people, along with a series of physical and psychological factors such as an imbalanced diet, lack of exercise, excessive work-related stress, and heredity may easily facilitate diseases. Compared to men, women are more prone to diseases. In particular, gynaecological diseases have been affecting more and even younger women in recent years, posing a serious threat to modern women. The risk factors of gynaecological cancer include:
- Aged 50 years or above
- Have excessive body fat, diabetes or high blood pressure
- Have taken oestrogen after menopause
- Have never given birth
- Have taken Tamoxifen (a hormone therapy drug for breast cancer)
- Have never given birth
- Have a family medical history of gynaecological cancer
Symptoms of Gynaecological Cancer
Screening and Diagnosis of Gynaecological Cancer
The two most common tests for ovarian cancer screening (except for a complete pelvic exam) are transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and CA-125 blood test. TVUS uses sound waves to observe the uterus, fallopian tubes and ovaries by inserting an ultrasound transducer into the vagina. Other cancer diagnostic tests include:
Medical consultation:
Medical History (e.g. gynaecological disease, obstetric history), allergies, family medical history, plans for pregnancy and contraception methods, menstrual cycle, etc.
Physical examination:
Measure height, weight, blood pressure, check for anaemia and thyroid disease.
Abdominal examination:
Check for palpable tumours in the abdomen, which are usually large uterine fibroids, ovarian cysts or ascites caused by cancer.
Cervical smear test:
The doctor will use a device to examine the cervix and collect cells with a brush for testing. The procedure takes only a few minutes and brings no pain but only minor discomfort.
Pelvic ultrasound:
A pelvic ultrasound can be conducted through the abdomen or vagina to check the uterus and ovaries for fibroids, ovarian cysts, etc.
Treatment of Gynaecological Cancer
Additionally, exercise is particularly important during the recovery process. Doctors recommend that gynecological cancer patients engage in gradual rehabilitation exercises tailored to their condition, age, and physical fitness to reduce post-treatment discomfort and emotional issues. Simple upper body exercises, such as using resistance bands to stretch the arms, can help build strength and improve mobility in the arms and shoulders, reducing stiffness and fatigue in the upper body. If the patient's condition allows, they can try some cardiovascular exercises, such as brisk walking, tai chi, and swimming. Water exercises, in particular, benefit from buoyancy and resistance, allowing muscles to be exercised with less weight. The pressure of the water can also enhance lymphatic circulation.
Gynecological cancer prevention
Gynecological cancers have far-reaching effects and are undoubtedly a major threat to women. It is crucial to take the following preventative measures:
- Women with sex experience should undergo pelvic examination and cervical smear test every 3 years after the age of 25
- Maintain a healthy diet and regular exercise for optimal body weight
- Limit alcohol consumption
- Use condoms during sexual intercourse
- Limit the number of sexual partners
- Receive HPV vaccination
Gynaecological Cancer FAQ
Q. What are the 5 types of gynaecological cancer?
Gynaecological cancers refer to cancers in the female reproductive organs. The five main types of gynaecological cancer are cervical cancer, ovarian cancer (including fallopian tube cancer and primary peritoneal cancer), uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer.
- There are three main methods for treating gynecological cancer: chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. These methods can also be used alone or in combination with other methods to relieve symptoms, depending on the patient's condition.
- Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy, commonly known as chemo, is a treatment which primarily includes the intravenous injection of cytotoxic drugs. The drugs will circulate through the bloodstream and kill cancer cells by destroying or inhibiting their division and proliferation.
- Radiology
Also known as "radiotherapy," cancer radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It is typically used for radical treatment of early-stage cancer. It is suitable for cases where the tumor has spread locally, or for removing any missed cancer cells. It is also suitable for patients who are too old or have other medical conditions to undergo treatment.
- Targeted Therapy
Particularly for ovarian cancer patients, some carry the BRCA 1/2 gene, which can be hereditary and significantly increase the risk of developing ovarian and Breast Cancer. For those carrying this gene, a targeted drug called a PARP inhibitor can be used. When tumors carry BRCA gene mutations, inhibiting the PARP repair pathway can lead to cancer cell death, while normal healthy cells, which do not have BRCA deficiencies, are not affected by this PARP-targeted drug, allowing for selective targeting of tumor cells. Research shows that for patients with the BRCA gene, using this targeted drug after early-stage ovarian cancer treatment and completing consolidation chemotherapy can significantly reduce the risk of recurrence.
Q. What are the causes of gynaecological cancer?
Many factors contribute to gynaecological cancers. According to medical research, mutations in proto-oncogenes and tumor suppressor genes contribute to the growth of cancer. A number of factors such as smoking, aging, environmental influences or heredity can cause abnormal function of these genes. Almost all cervical cancers and some vaginal and vulvar cancers are caused by a virus called HPV (human papillomavirus).
Q: Can gynecological cancers be prevented?
Regular screenings and self-examinations can detect certain types of gynecological cancers at an early stage, when treatment is more likely to be successful and potentially lead to a complete cure. Diet, exercise, and lifestyle choices play a significant role in cancer protection. Furthermore, knowledge of family history can increase the chances of protection or early diagnosis by determining whether an individual may possess genes that make them susceptible to cancer.
