Cancer is a disease in which cells in the body grow out of control.Five main types of cancer affect a woman's reproductive organs: cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar. As a group, they are referred to as gynecologic cancer.
Each gynecologic cancer is unique, with different signs and symptoms, risk factors,prevention strategies. When gynecologic cancers are diagnosed early, treatment is most effective.
Cancers of the female reproductive tract and breast has a high incidence amongst Indian women.
About 50-60% of all cancers among women in India are related mainly to the four organs; cervix uteri, breast, corpus uteri, and ovaries
Certain tests (e.g., Pap smear test) can detect cancer early, before there are symptoms, and when it is most treatable. You can also adopt positive lifestyle habits to decrease your risk. For example, there is evidence to suggest that smoking - or even being exposed to secondhand smoke - increases your risk for cervical cancer. Another cause of cervical cancer is the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Other things you can do to reduce your risk include:
• Maintain a healthy weight
• Exercise regularly for at least 30 minutes
• Control blood sugar levels
• Keep your blood pressure below 120/80
• Talk with your healthcare provider about your family history - some gynecologic cancers are hereditary
Centers for Disease Control and Prevention. 2008.
Read more about the most common gynecologic cancers:
Cervical: www.cdc.gov/cancer/cervical/
Ovarian: www.cdc.gov/cancer/ovarian/
