Gynecological Cancer
Understanding the causes and symptoms of gynaecological cancer for effective treatment and prevention to improve the survival rate
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 any age have a chance of developing gynecological cancers, and these diseases often show no obvious symptoms in their early stages. Therefore, regular check-ups and prevention are very important. If one waits until the body feels unwell to seek medical attention, it may already be too late for optimal treatment. The best approach is to maintain a healthy diet starting at age 25, and women with a history of sexual activity should begin regular Pap smear tests at age 25 and get the HPV vaccine as soon 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.
Prevention of Gynaecological Cancer
Gynaecological cancer has a profound effect on women and is absolutely considered their greatest enemy. Therefore, the following preventive measures should always be considered.
- 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 four main methods for treating gynecological cancers: surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapy. These methods can be used alone or in combination with other approaches to alleviate symptoms, depending on the patient's condition.
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Radiology
- Targeted Therapy
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 gynaecological cancers be prevented?
Regular screenings and self-examinations can help detect certain types of gynecological cancers early, making treatment more likely to be successful and potentially leading to complete remission. Choices related to diet, exercise, and lifestyle play an important role in cancer prevention. Additionally, knowledge of family history can increase the chances of prevention or early diagnosis by identifying whether someone may have genetic predispositions that make them more susceptible to cancer.
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