Each year in France, nearly 42% of cancers diagnosed in womens are gynecological and affect around 75,000 women per year. These cancers include several types affecting the female reproductive system, such as cancers of the uterus, ovaries, cervix, vulva, and vagina. It is important to understand and highlight the symptoms and risk factors associated with these cancers in order to implement more effective prevention, early detection and treatment strategies.

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What are the main risk factors for gynecological cancers?

Risk factors for gynecologic cancers vary depending on the type of cancer. Age is a common factor, with a majority of cases occurring in women of over 50, especially after menopause.

Les hormonal factors also play a crucial role. In addition, the absence of pregnancies or prolonged fertility treatments are factors that can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

The persistent infection with human papillomavirus (HPV) is the main risk factor for cervical cancer, and is also associated with some cancers of the vulva and vagina.

Les family history And the genetic predisposition significantly increase the risk of developing these cancers. For more information you can consult the following link: https://www.e-cancer.fr/Patients-et-proches/Les-cancers/Cancer-du-sein/Facteurs-de-risque/Predispositions-genetiques

Finally, the lifestyle also influences the appearance of certain cancers, with modifiable factors such as smoking, obesity, physical inactivity and an unbalanced diet.

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What are the symptoms of gynecological cancers?

The symptoms of gynecological cancers may be relatively characteristic, but do not necessarily mean the presence of a tumor.

Les abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially outside of menstruation, after menopause, or particularly heavy periods, may be signs of cancers of the uterus or cervix. Likewise, persistent pains or a feeling of heaviness in the pelvic region are frequently associated with ovarian or uterine cancers.

Of changes in the vulva or vagina, such as the appearance of lesions, itching, or changes in the appearance of the skin may occur.

In addition, digestive symptoms such as bloating, a rapid feeling of fullness, or abdominal pain may indicate ovarian cancer.

Finally, a rapid and unexplained weight loss is a symptom common to several gynecological cancers.

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If gynecological cancer is suspected, it is possible to perform a ultrasound or other complementary exams, such as a MRI Or a scanner, in order to confirm the diagnosis and assess the extent of the disease.

The early detection, particularly through the Pap smear test for cervical cancer and HPV vaccination, plays a crucial role in the prevention and improvement of the chances of recovery.