Cancer Symptoms Every Woman Should be Aware of: Gynecologic Malignancies
Every year, numerous women are diagnosed with various gynecologic cancers such as cervical cancer, ovarian cancer, breast cancer, and endometrial cancer or uterine cancer. Women who have reached menopause are more likely to develop certain cancers, but gynecologic malignancies can occur in women before menopause as well. It is crucial for all women, regardless of their age or family history, to be aware and cautious about the possibility of developing cancer.
Dr. Aruna Kalra, a Senior Gynaecologist, and Obstetrician at CK Birla Hospital has emphasized that gynecologic cancers typically have symptoms that are difficult to distinguish from other ailments. Early detection is vital for effective treatment, as only cervical and breast cancers can be identified through the screening. Women can increase their chances of identifying cancer at an early stage by recognizing these symptoms and consulting with their gynecologist or primary care physician.
The following are the symptoms of cancer that every woman should be aware of :
Abnormal Bleeding
Irregular bleeding occurs in more than 90% of endometrial cancer patients. If you have already reached menopause, any bleeding, including spotting, should be examined. If you have not yet experienced menopause, visit a doctor if you experience severe bleeding, bleeding between periods, or bleeding during sex as it could also be a symptom of vaginal or cervical cancer.
Changes in the Breasts
Most women discover breast cancer while performing normal activities such as bathing or shaving. Look out for breast or armpit lumps, nipple abnormalities, changes in breast sensation and appearance, and alterations to the skin on your breasts.
Changes in Bathroom Habits
Feeling bladder pressure all the time or the sudden urge to urinate frequently could indicate cancer, especially if you have not started drinking more fluids or are pregnant.
Dr. Amit Verma, a Molecular Oncologist and Cancer Geneticist at Dr. AV Cancer Institute of Personalized Cancer Therapy and Research in Gurgaon has added to the list of cancer symptoms that women should not ignore, including breast changes, abnormal vaginal bleeding, abdominal or pelvic pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits, unexplained weight loss, skin changes, and persistent cough or hoarseness.
Women should not ignore any unusual lumps, thickening, or dimpling in the breast, or changes in the nipple, such as discharge or inversion. Any bleeding after menopause, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, or bleeding between periods should be evaluated, and persistent or severe pain in the abdomen or pelvis could be a symptom of ovarian or other reproductive cancers. If you experience any changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or difficulty urinating, it could be a sign of colorectal or bladder cancer. If you are losing weight without trying, it could be a sign of cancer,
especially if you have a loss of appetite or are feeling tired. A cough that lasts longer than a month or hoarseness that lasts longer than two weeks could be a sign of lung cancer.
It is essential to see a doctor promptly to determine the cause and receive appropriate treatment if you experience any of these symptoms, and even if you have one or more of these signs, you may not have cancer. If they persist for more than two weeks, visit your doctor to be evaluated.
Staff Writer
