Detect GYNECOLOGIC Changes to Catch Cancer EARLY

Women’s health is a critical priority, and understanding your body is the first step in cancer prevention and early cancer detection.

Gynecologic cancers, which include cervical cancer, endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, uterine cancer, vaginal cancer, and vulvar cancer, affect thousands of women each year. Being aware of the warning signs of cervical cancer and other gynecologic cancers can significantly improve outcomes.

Half of all women are unaware of the signs and symptoms of cancer, making health awareness initiatives essential. Almost fifty percent of women diagnosed with gynecologic cancers have never attended a screening program. This lack of awareness and screening highlights the urgent need for education and proactive health management.

During a recent interview with Jonathan Marx, Dr. Sharyn Lewin MD, a board-certified Gynecologic Oncologist and the Founder and Executive Director of The Lewin Fund to Fight Women’s Cancers, emphasized the importance of recognizing cancer symptoms early. Dr. Lewin, who brings over twenty years of medical, research, and community outreach experience to her role, stressed that any abnormal bleeding, especially after menopause, is a significant warning sign that should prompt an immediate visit to a doctor.

For women who are still menstruating, changes in the cycle, such as heavier bleeding or bleeding between periods, are also critical symptoms to watch for. She also noted that abdominal or pelvic pain, bloating, feeling full too quickly, or changes in bowel or bladder habits are potential indicators of gynecologic issues, including ovarian cancer and endometrial cancer. Uterine or endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic cancer, and unfortunately, its incidence is rising every year, making it the most common cause of mortality from gynecologic cancers in the United States.