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According to the World Health Organization, breast and cervical cancers are in the top 4 cancers found in women, which lead to death. Marked every year in September, Gynaecologic Cancer Awareness Month aims to raise awareness and provide an opportunity to detect and prevent potential cancers before they become serious.
“They (cancer tests) allow for early detection of conditions such as cervical cancer, ovarian cysts, and sexually transmitted infections (STIs),” said Dr Surabhi Siddhartha, Consultant Obstetrician & Gynaecologist, Motherhood Hospital, Kharghar, adding that routine gynaecological checks are crucial for every woman, regardless of age or reproductive history.
Dr Sunita Dube, Senior Radiologist and Founder, MedscapeIndia, explained early detection and treatment are key in managing gynaecological cancers, and regular screenings can significantly improve outcomes.
Dr Manjari Gupta, Obs & Gynecology, Cygnus Laxmi Hospital, said routine gynaecological checks are crucial for several reasons:
a. Early detection: Regular check-ups can help detect gynaecological issues, including cancer, in their early stages when they are more treatable.
b. Preventive care: These checks allow healthcare providers to assess your overall gynaecological health, provide vaccinations (like HPV), and offer guidance on maintaining a healthy lifestyle.
c. Reproductive health: They are essential for monitoring and maintaining reproductive health, including family planning, contraception, and fertility concerns.
d. Addressing symptoms: Routine checks help identify and address any symptoms or concerns you may have, such as irregular periods or pelvic pain.
e. Health maintenance: Gynaecological checks also include screenings for sexually transmitted infections (STIs) and can promote overall well-being.
The five most important cancer tests related to gynaecological health, according to the experts include:
The Pap smear is primarily aimed at detecting cervical cancer, which is one of the most common gynaecological cancers. The procedure involves collecting cells from the cervix, which are then examined under a microscope to determine if there are any abnormalities or early signs of cancerous growth.
Women should start screening at age 21 and continue every three years until age 65, with potential modifications depending on individual risk factors.
Human papillomavirus (HPV) infection is known to be one of the leading causes of cervical cancer. While both men and women can contract HPV, it poses a higher risk for women as it often leads to serious health complications such as abnormal cell changes in the cervix.
An HPV DNA test can detect high-risk strains of HPV that could develop into cancer if left untreated. It can be done after 25. HPV testing is often performed in conjunction with a Pap smear for women aged 30 and older, or earlier if there are specific risk factors. It helps detect high-risk HPV strains associated with cervical cancer.
If abnormalities are detected during a Pap smear, a colposcopy may be recommended. It involves examining the cervix using a magnifying device to identify potentially pre-cancerous or cancerous lesions. The timing of a colposcopy depends on the specific findings of the Pap smear and individual risk factors.
Unlike other gynaecological cancer tests, transvaginal ultrasound helps detect cancers in various organs within the pelvic region, including the ovaries and uterus. By using sound waves to generate images, doctors can visualise potential tumours or abnormal growths that may be indicative of ovarian or uterine cancer. It can be done as suggested by the doctor.
This identifies mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which can increase the risk of breast and ovarian cancers.
The CA-125 blood test measures the level of a protein called CA-125 in the bloodstream, which tends to increase with some types of ovarian cancers. This test can be done after 30.
An endometrial tissue sample is conducted to identify any irregular cells or indications of uterine cancer.
This procedure is particularly beneficial for women with an increased susceptibility to endometrial cancer due to inheritance or in cases where there are symptoms that necessitate evaluation. This sample check can be done as per the advice of the doctor.
While not exclusively a gynaecological test, mammography is essential for breast cancer screening in women. Regular mammograms should start at age 40 to 50, depending on national guidelines, and continue biennially or annually depending on risk factors.
It is crucial to consult with a gynaecologist or primary care physician to determine the most appropriate screening regimen based on individual risk factors, symptoms, and age. Regular gynaecological checks and cancer screenings are vital for maintaining overall health and well-being in women.
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