From OHC
August 7, 2013
OHC provides Gynecologic Oncology, a specialized field of medicine that concentrates on understanding and treating cancers that attack a woman’s reproductive system. These diseases include cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer. Each year, approximately 82,000 women are diagnosed with cancer of the reproductive organs. It is the fourth most common form of cancer in women.
Gynecologic oncologists are trained through a residency in obstetrics and gynecology, and have added an additional three to four years of training in gynecological cancers.
Statistically speaking, when a woman receives care from a gynecologic oncologist prior to any other surgical or medical treatment, she stands a higher likelihood of a total cure.
Common symptoms of reproductive cancers include:
- A change in bowel or bladder habits
- A sore that does not heal
- Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
- A thickening or lump that either causes pain or can be seen in the pelvic area
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
Women experiencing these symptoms should see their OB/GYN physician or a gynecologic oncologist.
As with other forms of cancer, early detection can increase the odds of a cure. Early detection often revolves around recognizing and managing risk factors when they are present. Some of these risk factors include the following:
- Women who are post menopausal (over the age of 50)
- Endometrial Hyperplasia, a condition characterized by abnormal endometrium cells
- Cervical Dysplasia, a condition characterized by abnormal cervical cells
- Obesity
- Diabetes
- High blood sugar
- Having contracted other cancers such as colon, rectal, or breast
- If menstruation came at an early age
- Women who have never been pregnant
- Women suffering from hormone-related issues
- Women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer
With 15 convenient locations in and around Cincinnati, we stand ready to help. If you feel you might be at risk for a reproductive cancer, make an appointment with one of our gynecologic oncologists above or call us today at 1-800-710-4674.
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