Cancer Issues
Women and Cancer: Cervical, Ovarian, and Uterine
By
May 12, 2010 - 1:53:12 PM

(HealthNewsDigest.com) - The National Foundation for Cancer Research is spreading the word about cancers that specifically affect women. Cervical cancer, ovarian cancer and uterine cancer are three types of cancer that women in particular should be aware of and take steps towards preventing and detecting early.

Cervical Cancer

In most cases, cervical cancer is caused by the Human Papillomavirus (HPV), which is sexually transmitted. There are now two HPV vaccines, Gardasil and Cervarix, which block two strains of HPV that usually lead to cervical cancer. To activate a young girl's immune system before she is likely to encounter HPV, girls as young as 10 can get the vaccine, and it is recommended for all women age 26 and under. Getting the vaccine is a tangible, easy way to significantly decrease your chances of getting cervical cancer. Finally, women should make sure they are getting routine pap smears during their yearly checkups, as these can screen for cervical cancer.

Ovarian Cancer

It is unclear as to what usually causes ovarian cancer, but symptoms include pressure or pain in the abdomen, pelvis, back or legs; a swollen or bloated abdomen; and nausea, indigestion, diarrhea, gas or constipation. Because these symptoms are ambiguous and the cancer is deep within, ovarian cancer is difficult to detect early. Therefore, women should receive regular examinations from a physician both to detect the disease when possible and to prevent spreading to other nearby organs. A pelvic exam performed by a physician during a yearly checkup is necessary each year to determine whether or not a woman has ovarian cancer. Other possible diagnostic tests include biopsies, ultrasounds and blood tests, and NFCR recommends that women talk with their doctor to see if one might be right for you.

Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer commonly begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium), but its cause is uncertain as well. It is thought that an imbalance between the two main female hormones, estrogen and progesterone is a related factor. Higher levels of estrogen can cause too much growth of endometrial cells, resulting in tumors. Women at a higher risk of getting uterine cancer include those with higher levels of estrogen, such as obese women and women who take large doses of estrogen over a long period of time. A pelvic examination may indicate that a woman has uterine cancer and other tests including a biopsy or an ultrasound may be used.

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