Sexual and Reproductive Health Rights (CISH) Platform drew attention to the importance of early diagnosis, especially for September, which is the month of gynecological cancer. Screening tests against cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, intrauterine, vaginal and vulva cancers are vital. Nurşen Kanbur, Reproductive Health Educator of TAPV (Turkish Family Health and Planning Foundation), member of the CISÜ Platform, said, “Even if you are not in the risk group, we do not have the luxury of neglecting regular check-ups. "We invite all women to take a screening test without wasting time," he said.
According to the National Cancer Institute, by the end of 2023, more than 106 thousand women will be diagnosed with gynecological cancer in the United States alone and more than 32 thousand will die from this cancer. Platform Spokesperson Kanbur said, “There are different risk factors for each of these cancers, including genetic factors. However, many women+ can get this disease even without being in a high-risk group. Therefore, he warned, "Even if you are not in the risk group, you should not neglect regular checks."
Most common: “Uterine cancer”
Stating that the World Health Organization invited all women+ to the awareness campaign with the slogan 'be informed, get screened, get vaccinated' this year, Kanbur gave the following information about the symptoms of gynecological cancer types: "Uterine cancer (uterus or endometrium cancer) is the most common gynecological cancer. It is cancer. Early diagnosis increases the chances of successfully treating uterine cancer. If you are experiencing unusual vaginal bleeding, spotting, or discharge, you should see a doctor. “Achieving and maintaining a healthy weight is one way to reduce the risk of uterine cancer.”
Kanbur also gave the following information about cervical cancer: “Symptoms of cervical cancer include abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding, bleeding after vaginal sex, vaginal odor and pelvic or abdominal pain. If you are experiencing any of these symptoms you should see a gynecologist. Most cases of cervical cancer are now preventable. HPV vaccine can be administered from ages 9 to 46. "The best way to detect cervical cancer early is to have Pap smear tests and HPV tests at regular intervals. The risks and symptoms of cervical cancer should be explained to all women during menopause."
Pointing out that there is currently no effective screening for ovarian cancer, Kanbur emphasized that if there are symptoms such as bloating, urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency), pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly for more than a few weeks, a gynecologist should be consulted. Kanbur said that transvaginal ultrasound and CA 125 blood tests can be performed to screen those at high risk of ovarian cancer in cases such as a family history of breast and ovarian cancer, Lynch syndrome, and BRCA gene mutations.
Watch out for symptoms
Symptoms of vaginal cancer include unusual vaginal bleeding, bleeding after sex, pain, problems with urination or bowel movements, watery discharge, or a swelling or mass in the vagina. Symptoms of vulvar cancer or precancerous include chronic itching, abnormal bleeding or discharge, skin color changes (lighter or darker, red or pink), wart-like or swelling with a raw surface. Although there is no standard screening for vulvar cancer, knowing what to look for can help with early detection. If there is an area on the vulva that looks different from normal, a swelling or lump (red, pink or white), thickening of the vulvar skin or an open wound, it should be taken into consideration.
Ministry of Health should take concrete steps
Kanbur stated that the Ministry of Health, local governments and other relevant public institutions should carry out information and awareness campaigns about gynecological cancers and said, “Many women can get these diseases because they do not have enough information, or treatment can be started too late. Screening tests and HPV vaccines should be free and accessible to all women. "The Ministry of Health needs to take serious steps on this issue," he said.
