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Cancer does not discriminate based on age or gender, but certain types are more frequent in women. Understanding these common cancers empowers women to modify their lifestyles for better prevention. This blog post explores the types of most common cancer in women and offers strategies for reducing risk.
Synopsis
Common cancers in women
Cancer presents unique challenges for women, impacting them biologically, emotionally, and financially. Factors like limited health access and social stigma can worsen these challenges, leading to delays in diagnosis and treatment. Steps must be taken to help women combat cancer by educating them on common types of cancer in women, which include breast, colorectal, endometrial, lung, skin, cervical, and ovarian. Knowing about these cancers, identifying them early, and taking preventive measures can help save lives.
Breast cancer is the most common cancer in women worldwide. It can develop at any age but risk increases with ageing. The best way to fight breast cancer is to find it early and prevent its spread. This makes cancer screening crucial for women. Although genetics is the primary contributor to breast cancer, all women over 40 must get tested. Women must undergo yearly breast cancer screening with a mammogram.
Women between the ages of 40 to 45 are commonly affected by colon cancer. The risk of developing colon cancer in women increases with a family history, women with inflammatory bowel disease, or polyps in the rectum or colon. Other factors include obesity, physical inactivity, unhealthy diet, and bad habits. Colorectal cancer is one of the most treatable cancers when diagnosed early. Therefore, women at risk for colorectal cancer must undergo regular screening with colonoscopy.
Apart from this, gynaecological cancers are known to have detrimental consequences on women’s health. Cervical cancer caused by Human papillomavirus (HPV) develops in sexually active women. The HPV infection also spreads during skin-to-skin contact with infected body parts. Long-standing HPV infection turns to cervical cancer. Early diagnosis with a PAP smear can change the course of treatment. Administering the HPV vaccine to young girls and women between the ages of 9 to 26 years can significantly reduce the disease burden.
Ovarian cancer is a challenging condition which is often diagnosed late. A lack of reliable screening methods and subtle symptoms add to the complexity of the disease. It commonly affects a woman with a family history, having no child, or having a child after 35 years. Thus, it is important to visit a doctor if you notice abdominal swelling, digestive problems, pelvic pain, and increased urge to urinate. Some women opt for preventive surgery to reduce their cancer risk.
Postmenopausal women are at a significant risk for developing endometrial cancer. Unfortunately, there is no screening test to diagnose the cancer early. If you notice bleeding between periods, pelvic pain, or bleeding post-menopause, book an appointment with our Oncology Specialists in Dhakuria.
Lung cancer is one of the most aggressive cancer in women. Smoking, second-hand smoke, and air pollution contribute to its rising incidence. It is recommended for everyone at risk for lung cancer to undergo yearly screening with low-dose CT. Being subjected to harmful UV radiation from the sun also increases the risk of skin cancers. Anyone with any skin tone can get skin cancer. Limiting time in the sun and using sunscreen with an SPF of at least 30 can reduce cancer risk. If left untreated, these cancers can turn fatal. Undergoing regular screening can help catch the cancer early and treat it.
Conclusion
Cancer is a fatal disease which may go unnoticed in its early stages, especially among women. It is wise not to ignore any mild pain or early symptoms your body may experience. Be vigilant of your health and visit Manipal Hospitals if you notice any of the above symptoms. Consult our Oncology Hospital in Dhakuria to map out your ideal treatment plan.
FAQ's
If a woman develops symptoms of ovarian cancer, she is recommended to undergo a pelvic exam. Additional tests like imaging tests for ovaries and transvaginal ultrasound can also be suggested.
Usual signs of breast cancer include a painless lump or mass, bulging of the skin, nipple retraction, and changes in skin colour and discharge.
All women above 35 years must undergo screening. Any abnormal vaginal discharge must be investigated. Bleeding after menopause must be properly examined.
Vast cases of cancer can be prevented by avoiding smoking, preventing sun damage, practising safe sexual behaviour, eating a high-fibre and low-fat diet, and having regular PAP tests.
HPV vaccination is a highly recommended method for preventing cervical cancer, but not all get vaccinated. Women who show moderate to severe cell changes in the cervix can undergo a Loop Electrosurgical Excision Procedure (LEEP) to remove abnormal tissue from the cervix.
To schedule an appointment at Manipal Hospitals, contact our oncology department or visit our website.
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