Since October is Breast Cancer Awareness month, I thought it would be a perfect time to address the cancers that are common to women. I wanted to share the information I found on these common cancers and the possible detection, prevention, and treatment options. Cancer is one of the top two causes of death in women, the other is heart disease. We need to be educated in the signs, tests and possible prevention of all types of cancer.
Breast cancer is diagnosed in women every day, affecting 1 in 8. Women over the age of 40 are considered at risk, but younger women are often diagnosed as well. Today early detection and treatment has improved. Regular checkups and mammograms are encouraged to help with early detection. If found early enough, before the onset of the typical symptoms, then successful treatment chances are higher. There are many different types of breast cancers, some which are hereditary. Meaning there is a gene mutation passed down from either parent and can affect either a son or daughter. The BRCA1 and BRCA2 are tests that can be taken to determine your risk of breast and/or ovarian cancers.
Ovarian cancer is the #1 female reproductive system cause of death. This cancer is higher in women over 50 but can still be found in younger women as well. This cancer is harder to detect early with little to no symptoms until it has progressed. If it can be found early, the treatment and the chance of recovery is higher.
One of the easiest to detect and prevent is cervical cancer. It can be prevented with regular Pap tests, HPV tests, which locate abnormal cells, that overtime can turn to cancer in your cervix. If the abnormal cells are found early enough then they can be treated prior to turning cancerous. This type of cancer has gone from being the #1 cancer death for women, down to #15.
Uterine cancer also affects the female reproductive system. This type of cancer is common after menopause or in women who are obese. A pelvic exam will show normal in the early stages. As it progresses, the uterus and its surroundings will change in size, shape, and consistency. Endometrial cancer is a type that develops only in the inner lining of the uterus.
Treatment depends of the type of cancer you have as well as other health conditions you may have. The options available and the recommended course of treatment will be something your doctor will share with you. Some of the treatments options are surgery, chemotherapy, radiation or in some cases immunotherapy. Be aware of your risks and know the symptoms. Taking preventative actions and regular checks up can help reduce your risk, treat, and recover from this deadly disease.
Most of us can say that we know someone or watched someone struggle with this disease. My aunt developed uterine cancer in her early 40’s, and spent 10 years fighting it. Taking the time to make yourself and others aware of the risk, prevention and treatment could save a life.