Up to half of female reproductive system cancers can be prevented with HPV vaccination and regular gynecologist visits, including during menopause. Doctors from the nonprofit organization Ochsner Health System spoke about this MedicalXpres.
The most common malignant tumors of the female reproductive system are cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, and cancer of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Approximately 115,000 women are diagnosed annually in the United States, and half of the cases are preventable.
Cervical cancer is most commonly diagnosed between ages 35 and 44, but both younger and older women are at risk. This is the only gynecological cancer for which there is a vaccine. Children are vaccinated before they become sexually active (ages 11 to 12), but in some cases the vaccine is also indicated for people up to age 26. Pap tests and HPV tests can detect precancerous or cancer at its early stage, when treatment is most effective. Many women do not have symptoms of cervical cancer, but they may include abnormal bleeding after sex, pain in the abdomen or pelvis, and heavy vaginal discharge.
Endometrial cancer is a disease that affects the lining of the uterus and is diagnosed after the age of 50 in most patients. The most common symptom is postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. Obesity and physical inactivity can increase your risk of disease.
Ovarian and fallopian tube cancer most often begins on the surface of the ovaries, or in the tubes that carry eggs from the ovary to the uterus. It is rare in women under 40 and usually develops after menopause. Up to 25% of cases are associated with high hereditary risk. The most common genetic mutation that causes hereditary breast and ovarian cancer syndrome is BRCA. It can be detected using a blood or saliva sample. Women who have close blood relatives with ovarian cancer may be prescribed medications or surgery to prevent the disease from developing.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer include pelvic and/or abdominal pain, bloating, frequent urination, appetite problems, or getting full easily. Women who experience these symptoms for more than a few weeks should be evaluated by their healthcare provider.
Previous scientists I learnedIt is stated that drinking water may increase the risk of colorectal cancer in men.