Women are often more aware of their bodies than men are because of the natural changes that occur during the menstrual cycle, pregnancy and menopause. Knowledge of the risks of gynecological (reproductive system) cancers plays an important role in detecting cancer during its early stages, when a cure is most possible. It is important to be aware of the risk factors for gynecological cancers and to ask your doctor to screen you for them.

Each woman has a unique risk profile. A tally of risk factors helps determine the types of preventive screenings to be chosen. Here are some of the risk factors for gynecological cancers and the recommended screening methods.

Risk factors for breast cancer are a family history of breast cancer, having had estrogen replacement therapy, and ethnicity. Since 1995, the death rate from breast cancer in San Diego County has declined in all ethnic groups except for Asian/Pacific Islanders. Rates remain highest among black women, though they have dropped to rates comparable with those of white women. The incidence of breast cancer is highest among white women. However, mortality rates are highest among black women. The most common symptom of breast cancer is a lump in the breast. The screening test for breast cancer is a clinical breast exam followed by a mammogram. These should be performed annually, particularly for women over age 40.

The cervix is the lower part of the uterus or womb. For cervical cancer, those women who are sexually active have the greatest risk. Pap smears, HPV typing, and clinical exams are used to detect cervical cancers, which begin in the lining of the cervix. Cervical cancers do not form suddenly. Normal cervical cells gradually develop pre-cancerous changes that turn into cancer. Only some women with pre-cancerous changes of the cervix will develop cancer. This process usually takes several years but sometimes can happen in less than a year. For most women, pre-cancerous cells will remain unchanged and go away without treatment. But if these pre-cancers are treated, almost all true cervical cancers can be prevented.

The most common uterine cancer (cancer of the womb) is found in the uterus lining (the endometrium). Post-menopausal women are at highest risk, and an endometrial biopsy is the means of detection. Symptoms of both cervical and uterine cancer include abnormal vaginal bleeding, pain during intercourse, difficult or painful urination, or pain in the pelvic area. These symptoms most often result from other, less serious conditions, but the best course of action is to consult your physician.

Ovarian cancer symptoms can include pain in the abdomen, a feeling of being bloated, fatigue, weight loss, or problems with urination. However, these can also all be caused by a number of other diseases, so it is difficult to diagnose ovarian cancer by symptoms alone. The largest risk factor is a family history of ovarian cancer. Older women are also at more risk. Approximately one woman in 50 will get ovarian cancer. A clinical exam is the best means of detection.

Timely detection of gynecological cancers helps women avoid the serious health consequences that can result from delayed diagnosis and treatment.

For more information or to make an appointment, call Vista Community Clinic at (760) 631-5220 or visit www.vistacommunityclinic.org.