Experts tell women to take precautions, what to do to minimizegynecological cancer risk

Breast Cancer

Marsha Hunt---“We want women to know that they can take these simple steps to reduce their risks of gynecologic cancers, and that as a team of specialists we are here to help,” said SGO President Barbara A. Goff, MD.

And what are these steps? Medical research from the Society of Gynecologic Oncology, the leading organization of health care professions and doctors, has outlined a number of things women can do in order to lower the risk of having some type of cancer.

First of all, women should keep their weight optimum for height, age, and other factors, as obesity is found linked to certain types of cancers, such as endometrial cancer, which is the most common type of cancer in women. It's also important for a woman to know her family history of breast and ovarian cancer, as these genetic links can make a difference.

Ovarian cancer is very difficult to detect, so knowing the family history can provide some direction for testing for this cancer.

Those with a genetic predisposition to breast and ovarian cancers, as well as other types, might consider genetic counseling to determine the risk of developing cancer and what actions should be taken. This might include monitoring health more intensively. Sometimes surgery is needed, as occurred with Angela Jolie, who had her breasts removed because she had a very high likelihood of developing breast cancer.

Vaccinations are important to reduce the possibility of cervical cancer, which at one time, before the vaccination, was the most common cancer-caused death among women around the world. The PAP test reduced the death rate substantially. But doctors say that cervical cancer can be almost eliminated if young boys and girls are vaccinated against the human papillomavirus (HPV). That virus is the one responsible for most cervical cancer. Adults can be tested for HPV to see if there is a need to be monitored to prevent cancer from occurring or to get ahead in treatment.

Finally experts remind women that if they do have a gynecological cancer, it is better to have it treated by a cancer specialist in gynecology. Gynecologic oncologists have the Knowledge specific to women and cancer, thus allowing for a greater chance of physician support that can make a difference in wellness and recovery. It also means the potential to have access to clinical trials and care that is comprehensive.