Gynecologic Oncology
While physician specialists in gynecologic cancer are not available at all community hospital cancer centers, Holy Name's Regional Cancer Center offers the services of a board-certified gynecologic oncologist. Dedicated to treating cancers of the ovaries, uterus, endometrium and cervix, our gyn oncologist and specially-trained nurse practitioner work closely with the Cancer Center's medical and radiation oncologists, members of the hospital's obstetrician/gynecology staff, other related physicians and support personnel, to provide comprehensive specialty care for women with gynecologic malignancies. The Regional Cancer Center also participates in Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) research protocols, benefiting Holy Name's patients through access to national studies and cutting-edge clinical research.
Facts about three common Gynecologic Cancers:
Endometrial cancer
Site: The endometrium, the lining of the uterus
Early warning signs facilitate diagnosis and treatment. Watch for any irregular bleeding — between periods, skipping periods, heavy periods and bleeding after menopause. Women at higher-than-average risk include those who are 20 to 50 pounds overweight, have never been pregnant, undergo late menopause or have a history of skipping menstrual periods. Other risk factors are diabetes and high blood pressure.
Ovarian Cancer
Site: The ovaries, egg producing organs on each side of the uterus, linked by the Fallopian tubes.
There are no warning signs in the early stages when the cure rate is 95 to 98 percent. Symptoms include abdominal discomfort, pain and /or pressure, usually appear later. Risk factors include having a mother or sister with ovarian cancer, being Caucasian, experiencing late menopause, having children late and never becoming pregnant.
Cervical Cancer
Site: The cervix, the lower part of the uterus
The most common symptom of this cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. Through a pap smear, a physician gathers a sample of cells from the cervix. Highly treatable in its early stages, cervical cancer is most commonly caused by the human papilloma virus (HPV), the same infection that causes genital warts. Sexual intercourse before age 16 and multiple partners are major risk factors, as is smoking, which doubles a woman's risk of developing cervical cancer.
Contact Information
The Regional Cancer Center
At Holy Name Hospital
201-541-5900