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| Vol. 21, No. 16 |
| September 1, 1999 |
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September is Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month Every 64 minutes a woman in the United States is diagnosed with cancer of the reproductive organs. Gynecologic cancers are the fourth most common cancers in American women today. Gynecological cancers include those of the female reproductive tract, such as ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, vulvar or tubal cancer. "About one in every 20 women will be diagnosed with gynecologic cancer. Therefore, it is important for all women to become familiar with the warning signs and understand the importance of early detection and proper treatment. In most cases these fatal cancers can be prevented," says Dr. Alan Kaplan, gynecologic oncologist with The Methodist Hospital and director of the division of gynecologic oncology at Baylor College of Medicine. The Methodist Hospital, in conjunction with The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation, urges women to follow this four-step plan for preventive care. Early detection is the key to a greater chance of survival and more treatment options and routine care is the best way to keep you healthy. 1. Know your family history. Genetic risk for ovarian cancer can be transmitted through either the mother or father. The most significant risk factor for ovarian cancer is family predisposition. Alert your gynecologist about cancers in your family history so preventative measures can be taken. 2. Educate yourself about gynecologic cancer. Learn the warning signs of reproductive cancers and know your body. Six warning signs include: unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, sores that do not heal, pain or pressure in the pelvic area, persistent change in bowel or bladder habits, frequent indigestion or abdominal bloating and a lump that either causes pain or that is visible to sight and touch. 3. Make an annual appointment for a gynecologic exam and pap test. Women of all ages should have an annual gynecologic exam and pap test. Some gynecologic cancers have no symptoms and can only be detected by a visit to your gynecologist. A regular health care routine is critical to maintaining health and early detection. 4.Conduct an on-line cancer risk assessment. Women can receive a free, personalized assessment of their risk for developing cervical, ovarian, uterine and breast cancer by logging onto the Internet at www.wcn.org. The site contains in-depth information on female cancers, resources for women diagnosed with cancer and information on gynecologic oncologists. - GINA JOHNSON
The Methodist Hospital, in recognition of gynecological awareness month, will provide free educational materials at these locations.
©2006 Texas Medical Center E-Mail: tmc-info@tmc.edu URL: http://www.tmc.edu/tmcnews/09_01_99/page_05.html |