How common is gynaecological cancer?

In this article, highly revered consultant gynaecologist and gynae-oncologist, Mr Saurabh Phadnis, reveals how common gynaecological cancer is, and outlines the symptoms that patients simply should not ignore in relation to gynaecological cancer.

How common is gynaecological cancer?

Every year, more than 21,000 women in the UK are diagnosed with a gynaecological cancer. However, 95 per cent of women with symptoms will not have a gynaecological cancer.

What are the symptoms of gynaecological cancer that I should not ignore?

Any type of abnormal bleeding should be promptly investigated. Bleeding between periods, bleeding after intercourse, or postmenopausal bleeding could be a sign of cervical or uterine cancer and can also be related to other gynaecological cancers.

Other symptoms that should be investigated as soon as possible include the following:

• lumps and bumps
• persistent itching
• abdominal bloating/distention
• new onset of abdominal pain
• sudden onset of lower abdominal pain
• heavy and painful periods
• urinary frequency and stinging
• urinary leakage or incontinence
• pain during sex
• acute onset of vulval blisters and sores (ulceration)

What is the relationship between HPV infection and cervical cancer?

Cervical cancer is a very rare consequence of a common viral infection known as human papilloma virus (HPV). 80 per cent of men and women get the HPV infection at some stage in their lives. The majority, though, shake it off through their own immunity.

The time interval between getting the HPV infection and the development of cervical cancer is approximately 15 years. This gives plenty of time for prevention through smear tests. If women undergo routine and regular smears, HPV infection and precancerous lesions can be easily detected and treated, thus effectively preventing cancer.

To book a consultation with Mr Saurabh Phadnis, simply head on over to his Top Doctors profile today.