Women’s cancers are those cancers that affect the tissues and organs specific to women. These cancers can be life threatening and lead to the deaths of thousands of women each year. However, early detection of women’s cancers can help to reduce mortality and allow women to go on to live healthy lives.

Breast

Breast cancer is a type of cancer that has good cure outcomes with early detection. Regular breast self-exams and periodic mammograms are the best ways to detect small tumors in the early stages. The ability to recognize the normal lumps of breast tissue and distinguish them from any unusual growths can help to catch breast cancer in the early stages. Blood tests can detect the BRCA-1 and BRCA-2 genetic mutations that can increase your risk for breast and ovarian cancer. If genetic testing indicates you have this increased risk, discuss your options with your physician.

Cervical

Cervical cancer develops in the cervix, the small organ that connects the vagina to the uterus. This type of cancer is generally slow growing and may not exhibit any symptoms in the early stages. Regular Pap smears can help to detect cervical cancer in the early stages. Cervical cancer is known to be caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV) A vaccine to prevent infection by HPV is available for women between the ages of 12 and 26 years of age. When a Pap smear indicates abnormal cells in the cervical tissue, the gynecologist will order other tests to ensure that the cells are not cancerous. Surgery, radiation and chemotherapy are the standard treatments for this type of cancer.

Ovarian

Ovarian cancer occurs in the ovaries in the abdomen of the woman. The ovaries produce the eggs that are then fertilized by the man’s sperm and develop into a fetus. Ovarian cancer can produce vague symptoms in the early stages that may be missed. Women should be particularly alert to bloating, feelings of fullness urinary problems or menstrual changes. Ultrasound, blood tests, and MRI scans can help the physician to determine if ovarian cancer is present. Surgical removal of the ovarian tissue is the standard method of treatment for this type of cancer.

Uterine

Uterine cancer develops within the uterine tissue, or endometrium. The usual Pap test for cervical cancer does not detect it. This type of cancer may cause unusual bleeding or pelvic pain. If women experience these symptoms, they should consult with their physicians, who may order a biopsy or ultrasound to detect tumors. Common treatments for uterine cancer are surgery, radiation, chemotherapy and hormonal therapy.