FirstHealth of the Carolinas is joining the nation throughout September to recognize Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month by sharing information on cancers that affect the female reproductive organs.
Symptoms
We want to encourage women of all ages to pay attention to their bodies, know what is normal for them and be aware of any warning signs. Gynecologic cancers include cervical, ovarian, uterine, vaginal and vulvar cancers. The Centers for Disease Control and Prevention has a diary of gynecologic cancer symptoms.
Reduce Your Risk
Each type of gynecologic cancer has different risk factors, and risk increases with age. Cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers are caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a very common sexually transmitted infection. The HPV vaccine protects against the types of HPV that most often cause cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers. Since there is no simple and reliable way to screen for any gynecologic cancers except cervical cancer, it is especially important to recognize warning signs and learn if there are things you can do to reduce your risk.
How Much Do You Know?
Take a quiz about gynecologic cancers to find out.
Comprehensive Cancer Care at FirstHealth
FirstHealth Cancer Care’s comprehensive cancer services include patient navigation, integrative medicine, nutrition and dietary assistance, stress management, massage therapy, clinical trials, and more. For more information, visit www.nccancercare.org.
