Gynecologic Cancer

Breast, colorectal, endometrial, lung, cervical, skin, and ovarian cancers are the most common cancers in women. Knowing about these cancers and what you can do to help prevent them or detect them early (when they are small.

Breast cancer: Except for skin cancers, breast cancer is the most common cancer in women. It can happen at any age, but the risk increases with age. Some women may be more likely than others to develop breast cancer due to a variety of factors. However, every woman should be aware of the risks of breast cancer and what she can do to reduce her risk.

Colorectal cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the colon or rectum. Being overweight or obese, physical inactivity, a diet high in red and processed meats, smoking, heavy alcohol use, being older, and a personal or family history of colorectal cancer or polyps are all risk factors for colorectal cancer.

Endometrial cancer is a type of endometrial cancer (the inner lining of the uterus). As a woman gets older, her risk of developing endometrial cancer rises. Things that affect hormone levels, such as taking oestrogen without progesterone and taking tamoxifen for breast cancer treatment or risk reduction, can increase a woman's chances of getting this cancer. Early menstrual periods, late menopause, a history of infertility, or not having children can all increase the risk. Endometrial cancer is more likely in women who have a personal or family history of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC or Lynch syndrome) or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or who are obese. Women who have had breast or ovarian cancer may also be affected.

Cervical cancer: The most important risk factor for cervical cancer is chronic infection with certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can be transmitted through intimate skin-to-skin contact, such as vaginal, anal, or oral sex with someone infected with the virus. Smoking, having a weakened immune system, having had a chlamydia infection, being overweight, being exposed to or taking certain hormone treatments, and not having regular cervical cancer screening tests are all risk factors for cervical cancer.

Ovarian Cancer: Although ovarian cancer can occur at any age, it is more likely to occur as women get older. Women who have never had children or who had their first child after the age of 35 may be at a higher risk for this cancer. Women who have used oestrogen alone as hormone replacement therapy are also at a higher risk. Women who have a personal or family history of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC or Lynch Syndrome), ovarian cancer, or breast cancer are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. Women who do not have any of these conditions or risk factors can still develop ovarian cancer.