The global cancer burden is estimated to have risen to 18.1 million new cases and 9.6 million deaths according to GLOBOCON 2018. One in 5 men and one in 6 women worldwide develop cancer during their lifetime, and one in 8 men and one in 11 women die from the disease. Worldwide, the total number of people who are alive within 5 years of a cancer diagnosis, called the 5-year prevalence, is estimated to be 43.8 million. Breast cancer is the most commonly diagnosed cancer in women (24.2%, i.e. about one in 4 of all new cancer cases diagnosed in women worldwide are breast cancer), and the cancer is the most common in 154 of the 185 countries included in GLOBOCAN 2018. Breast cancer is also the leading cause of cancer death in women (15.0%), followed by lung cancer (13.8%) and colorectal cancer (9.5%), which are also the third and second most common types of cancer, respectively; cervical cancer ranks fourth for both incidence (6.6%) and mortality (7.5%).
Historically, cancer affects women less frequently than men. Women also tend to survive the disease more often than men. Studies have found that these differences in incidence and outcome may be attributed to the fact that men are diagnosed with cancer more often in the first place, and to the fact that many of the lifestyle-related risk factors for cancer, such as smoking cigarettes, drinking alcohol and eating fatty foods, have traditionally been more prevalent among men.
Preventing gynecologic or breast cancers isn’t always possible, but taking measures like eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity may help. Since breast and gynaecological cancers are a major issue in women, let us throw some light on these cancers.
Like most cancers, breast cancer is more easily and successfully treated if first detected in its early stages. Learning how to self examine breast at different times will help you understand what is normal for you. Most breast changes are not due to cancer, but you should see your doctor immediately if you notice any of the following unusual changes:
Mammograms are the best test to find breast cancer early. The U.S. Preventive Services Task Force (USPSTF), a group of experts, recommends that you get a mammogram every two years if you’re 50 to 74 years old.
Cervical cancer is one of the most preventable of all cancers. Nearly all cervical cancers are caused by long-term infection by the human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV can cause cervical cell changes, producing the abnormal cells that may develop into cancer.About 40 types of HPV are known as genital HPV as they affect the anal and genital area. Genital HPV is spread by intimate skin to skin contact during sexual activity, including sexual intercourse. The human papillomavirus (HPV) causes most cases of cervical cancer, as well as some cancers of the anus, vagina, vulva, penis and head and neck. Being vaccinated against HPV can help to prevent cervical cancer, as well as other cancers caused by HPV.
Cervical cancer that is detected early is more likely to be treated successfully. Most guidelines suggest that women begin screening for cervical cancer and precancerous changes at age 21. Women can reduce their risk of developing cervical cancer by having screening tests and receiving a vaccine that protects against HPV infection. Two screening tests can help prevent cervical cancer or find it early. Th Pap test (or Pap smear) looks for cell changes on the cervix that might become cervical cancer if they are not treated appropriately. The HPV test looks for the virus (human papillomavirus) that can cause these cell changes.
There are currently no screening tests for ovarian, uterine, vaginal or vulval cancers. Your doctor may do a pelvic examination when you have a Pap smear. This involves looking at the vulva and vagina, and feeling the uterus and ovaries.
It is important to be aware of the following symptoms and talk to your doctor if you notice any abnormal changes that persist for more than 3-4 weeks. Do keep in mind that these symptoms are common to many conditions, and most women who experience them will not have cancer.
The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers.
If vaccination is started before age 15, a two-dose schedule is recommended, with the doses given 6 to 12 months apart. For people who start the series after their 15th birthday, the vaccine is given in a series of three shots..
• Quit smoking and stay away from other people’s smoke. Tobacco use can cause cancer throughout the body—not just lung cancer.
• Avoid or limit alcohol
• Keep a healthy weight Overweight and obesity are linked with at least 13 kinds of cancer.
• Get moving with regular physical activity.
• Follow a healthy eating pattern that includes plenty of fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, and that limits or avoids red/processed meats, and highly processed foods.
• Get the cancer screening tests that are right for you. Screening tests may find breast, cervical, and colorectal cancers early.
• Get your kids vaccinated against HPV at age 11 or 12. The human papillomavirus (HPV) vaccine can prevent many cancers later in life.
