Types of Gynecologic Cancer

Types of Gynecologic Cancer

Uterine cancer
Uterine cancer includes many different types of tumors that arise within the uterus. Endometrial cancer is a type that occurs within the inner lining of the uterus. It is diagnosed in over 40,000 women in the United States each year, making it the most common cancer of the female reproductive system. Although there is no screening test for endometrial cancer, a common symptom is vaginal bleeding which occurs either in women who are postmenopausal or irregularly in women still having menstrual cycles. Biopsy of the lining of the uterus is necessary and often leads to diagnosis at an early stage.

“Cancer is a devastating disease whether the prognosis is relatively favorable or not. I try to bridge the gap between giving patients accurate and thoughtful information, but at the same time remaining reasonably optimistic and positive. I also try to stay with patients throughout this journey and always to be there for them.”

-Dr. David Hoogerland

Risk factors include obesity, increasing age, hypertension, diabetes, estrogen or tamoxifen use, and a family history of endometrial or colon cancer.

Ovarian Cancer
Over 20,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year in the United States. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected, and there is no available test for early detection. Symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, changes in bowel patterns or digestive problems, and urinary symptoms. Although these symptoms are common from time to time in many women, when persistent daily for many weeks, they should prompt women to consult their physician.

Risk factors include increasing age, a family history of breast or ovarian cancers, and a personal history of breast cancer.

Cervical Cancer
Cervical cancer is a malignant tumor within the lowest portion of the uterus. It is the second most common cancer occurring in women worldwide. Cervical cancer typically has no symptoms until it reaches an advanced stage at which time women may experience pelvic pain or vaginal bleeding. Fortunately, the Pap smear test is an effective screening test for detection of cervical cancer and even precancerous cells.

Cervical cancer is caused from the sexually transmitted human papilloma virus (HPV), accounting for approximately 90 percent of all cervical cancer cases. Most women's bodies are able to fight HPV infection, but sometimes the virus leads to cancer. A new vaccine that prevents HPV from being contracted is now available and appropriate for many women.