Cervical Cancer

The cervix is the narrow neck that opens into the uterus from the vagina. Cervical cancer is usually painless in its early stage. When discovered early, it is curable about 90 percent of the time. Approximately 12,000 new cases per year are diagnosed in the United States, mostly in women who have not received recommended Pap smear screening. Most cases can be prevented through Pap smear screening.

Ovarian Cancer and Fallopian Tube Cancer

Approximately 25,000 women annually are diagnosed with cancer of the ovaries, the almond size glands that produce estrogen and release eggs. Fallopian tube cancer is very rare, but its signs and symptoms commonly mimic ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the second most common gynecologic cancer, and is the 5th leading cause of cancer death among women. At the present time, screening is recommended only to those women with a family history that suggests an increased risk for the development of ovarian cancer.

Uterine Cancer

Cancer of the uterus, or womb, is the most common gynecologic cancer. About 40,000 new cases are diagnosed annually. Most cases are discovered in women who report abnormal vaginal bleeding, which usually occurs before the cancer has spread outside of the uterus. It is especially important for abnormal bleeding to be promptly evaluated, particularly if it occurs after menopause.

Vulvar Cancer

Cancer of the vulva, the external female genitalia, accounts for about four percent of gynecologic cancers. These cancers are often easily recognizable and are commonly cured with surgery when discovered early. Embarrassment often leads to unnecessary delays in diagnosis.

Vaginal Cancer

Cancer of the vagina, or birth canal, occurs in about 2,000 women. Most cases occur in women who have had a hysterectomy, often for precancerous conditions of the cervix. Vaginal cancer has a high cure rate when caught early and many cases can be prevented through Pap smear screening.

Symptoms or pain are rare in early stages; in later stages symptoms can include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding, including bleeding after menopause, between menstrual periods or after sexual intercourse
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Pelvic or back pain
• Urinary problems
• Leg swelling, especially if only one side affected

None in many cases; those that occur may be vague and non-specific

• Abdominal discomfort: bloating, constipation, cramps or pelvic discomfort
• Loss of appetite
• Feeling full even after a light meal
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pain during intercourse

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
• A rapidly enlarging uterus

• A sore, mole, lump, or painful irritation on the vulva
• Itching that persists for more than a few days

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

Cancers of the female reproductive system - also called gynecologic cancers - affect the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, vagina, and vulva. The American Cancer Society estimates that more than 83,000 American women will be diagnosed with gynecologic cancer this year. Many gynecologic cancers can be detected early, or prevented by paying attention to the signs and symptoms of disease, and by being aware of one's family history. Advances in surgical procedures, innovative therapies and prevention and detection programs are helping to save women's lives. Evaluate your options in order to make an informed decision.

At University Hospitals MacDonald Women's Hospital and Ireland Cancer Center, experts in gynecologic cancers ensure that women receive the most up to date diagnostics and treatment - and other advantages too.

The Ireland Cancer Center is northern Ohio's only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center, where advanced research and clinical services allow us to offer patients access to the most sophisticated innovative methods of cancer diagnosis, treatment, prevention and research. The Ireland Cancer Center participates in numerous clinical trials of new drug regimens for gynecologic cancers to study the effectiveness of new treatment options.

For questions about gynecologic or other cancers, call the Ireland Cancer Center Information Service at 216-844-5432 or 800-641-2422.

This information does not replace the need for appropriate gynecologic cancer screening methods and discussion of other female health matters with your personal physician.

All statistics cited are from the American Cancer Society 2003 Facts & Figures.