Oncology in women: the most common species

Oncology in women: the most common species

Women’s health is a complex and multifaceted area that requires special attention and care. Unfortunately, one of the most serious challenges faced by women around the world is oncology. Cancer diseases that affect the reproductive system and other organs are a significant threat to life and well -being. Understanding of various types of cancer, their symptoms, methods of diagnosis and treatment is crucial for the early detection and effective struggle against these diseases.

Breast cancer: epidemiology, risk factors and screening

Breast cancer is the most common type of cancer among women around the world. It affects the tissue of the mammary gland and can spread to other parts of the body if it is not detected or treated in the early stages. Millions of new cases are diagnosed annually, which makes breast cancer a serious public health problem.

Epidemiology:

The prevalence of breast cancer varies depending on the geographical region, ethnicity and socio-economic factors. In developed countries, the incidence is usually higher than in developing ones, which is associated with differences in lifestyle, reproductive factors and access to screening.

Risk factors:

Many factors can increase the risk of breast cancer. Some of the most important include:

1. Age: risk increases with age, most cases are diagnosed in women over 50 years of age.
2. Family history: the presence of close relatives (mother, sister, daughter) with breast cancer increases the risk.
3. Genetic mutations: mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of developing breast cancer and ovary.
4. The early beginning of menstruation and later the onset of menopause: a longer exposure to estrogen can increase the risk.
5. Lack of childbirth or late birth: women who have never gave birth or gave birth to a first child after 30 years old have a higher risk.
6. Hormone replacement therapy: prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the risk.
7. Obesity: overweight, especially after menopause, is associated with increased risk.
8. Alcohol: drinking alcohol in large quantities can increase the risk.
9. Radiation: The effect of radiation at an early age, for example, in the treatment of other diseases, can increase the risk.

Screening:

Regular screening is key to early detection of breast cancer, when treatment is most effective. The main screening methods include:

1. Self -examination of the mammary glands: women should regularly conduct a self -examination of the mammary glands to identify any changes or seals.
2. Clinical examination of the mammary glands: the doctor should conduct a clinical examination of the mammary glands during regular medical examinations.
3. Mammography: Mammography is an X-ray examination of the mammary glands, which can detect tumors in the early stages, until any symptoms appear. It is recommended to start mammography at the age of 40-50 years and repeat it annually or once every two years, depending on individual risk factors.
4. Ultrasound examination of the mammary glands: ultrasound can be used in addition to mammography, especially in women with dense breast tissue.
5. MRI of the mammary glands: MRI of the mammary glands can be recommended for women with a high risk of developing breast cancer, for example, in the presence of genetic mutations or family history.

Symptoms:

It is important to pay attention to any changes in the mammary glands and see the doctor immediately when the following symptoms appear:

1. Seal or tumor in the mammary gland or armpit.
2. Changes in the size or shape of the mammary gland.
3. Subject of the nipple.
4. Discharge from the nipple, especially bloody.
5. Changes in the skin of the mammary gland, such as redness, wrinkling or peeling.
6. The pain in the mammary gland, which is not associated with the menstrual cycle.

Cervix cancer: human papilloma virus and prevention

Cervical cancer is cancer that develops in the cells of the cervix, the lower part of the uterus connecting to the vagina. In most cases, the cervical cancer is caused by the human papillomavirus (HPV), a common sexually transmitted infection.

The role of HPV:

HPV has many types, some of which are associated with a high risk of developing cervical cancer. In particular, the types of HPV 16 and 18 cause about 70% of cases of cervical cancer. HPV can infect the cells of the cervix and cause changes, which over time can lead to cancer.

Risk factors:

In addition to infection of HPV, other factors can increase the risk of developing cervical cancer:

1. Early beginning of sexual activity.
2. Multiple sexual partners.
3. Smoking.
4. Weakened immune system.
5. Long -term use of oral contraceptives.
6. Human immunodeficiency virus infection (HIV).

Screening:

Screening is the key to the prevention of cervical cancer. Regular screening tests can identify precancerous changes in cervical cells that can be treated before cancer. The main screening methods include:

1. Pap test (papanicolau smear): Dad test is a procedure in which cells are taken from the cervix and examine them under a microscope for the presence of anomalies.
2. HPV test: HPV test reveals the presence of high -risk VPV types in the cervical cells.
3. Kolposcopy: Kolposcopy is a procedure in which the doctor uses a special microscope (colposcope) to examine the cervix for anomalous areas. If anomalous areas are found, the doctor can take a biopsy for further research.

Vaccination:

Vaccination against HPV is an effective way of preventing cervical cancer. HPV vaccines are protected from the most common types of HPV that cause cervical cancer. It is recommended to vaccinate girls and boys aged 11-12 years, but vaccination can also be carried out at an older age.

Symptoms:

In the early stages, cervical cancer usually does not cause any symptoms. As cancer progresses, the following symptoms may appear:

1. Bloody discharge from the vagina between menstruation.
2. Bloody discharge after intercourse.
3. Pain in the basin.
4. Pain during intercourse.
5. Abundant or unusual vaginal discharge.

Ovarian cancer: Diagnostic complexity and modern treatment methods

Ovarian cancer is cancer that develops in the ovaries, reproductive organs of women producing eggs and hormones. Ovarian cancer is often called a “quiet killer”, because in the early stages it usually does not cause any symptoms, which complicates its early diagnosis.

Types of ovarian cancer:

There are several types of ovarian cancer, the most common of which is the epithelial ovarian cancer. Other types include herminogenic tumors and stromal tumors.

Risk factors:

Factors that can increase the risk of ovarian cancer, include:

1. Age: risk increases with age, most cases are diagnosed in women over 50 years of age.
2. Family history: the presence of close relatives with ovarian cancer, breast or colon increases risk.
3. Genetic mutations: mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of ovarian and breast cancer.
4. Lack of birth: women who have never gave birth have a higher risk.
5. Hormone replacement therapy: prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT) can increase the risk.
6. Obesity: overweight is associated with increased risk.

Screening:

Screening for ovarian cancer is a difficult task, since there are no effective screening methods that allow you to identify cancer in the early stages in women without symptoms. The main methods used for screening include:

1. Transvaginal ultrasound: transvaginal ultrasound is a procedure in which an ultrasound sensor is entered into the vagina for examination of the ovaries.
2. A blood test for the CA-125: CA-125 is a protein whose level can be increased for ovarian cancer. However, the CA-125 level can be increased in other conditions, which makes this test not specific enough.

Symptoms:

In the early stages, ovarian cancer usually does not cause any symptoms. As cancer progresses, the following symptoms may appear:

1. Bloating.
2. Pain in the pelvis or abdomen.
3. A feeling of quick saturation when eating.
4. Frequent urination.
5. Changes in the work of the intestine.
6. Inexplicable weight loss.
7. Fatigue.

Endometry cancer: the role of hormones and early diagnosis

Endometry cancer is a cancer that develops in the endometrium, the mucous membrane of the uterus. This is the most common type of uterine cancer.

The role of hormones:

The main risk factor for the development of endometrial cancer is an excess of estrogen. Estrogen stimulates the growth of the endometrium, and the prolonged effect of estrogen without anti -progesterone can increase the risk of cancer.

Risk factors:

Factors that can increase the risk of endometrial cancer include:

1. Age: risk increases with age, most cases are diagnosed in women after menopause.
2. Obesity: overweight increases estrogen levels.
3. Lack of birth: women who have never gave birth have a higher risk.
4. The early beginning of menstruation and later the onset of menopause: a longer exposure to estrogen can increase the risk.
5. Reception of tamoxifen: Tamoxifen, the drug used to treat breast cancer can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
6. Polycystic ovary (PCOS): PCOU is associated with an increased level of estrogen and an increased risk of developing endometrium cancer.
7. Diabetes: diabetes mellitus is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer.

Screening:

Endometrium cancer screening is usually not performed in women without symptoms. However, women with a high risk of endometrial cancer can recommend transvaginal ultrasound and endometrial biopsy.

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal uterine bleeding, especially after menopause. Other symptoms may include:

1. Bloody discharge between menstruation.
2. Abundant or long menstruation.
3. Pain in the basin.
4. Vaginal discharge not related to the menstrual cycle.

Cancer of the vulva and vagina: rare species and prevention

Vulva cancer and vaginal cancer are rare types of cancer that affect the external genitalia (vulva) and the vagina, respectively.

Risk factors:

Risk factors for vulva and vaginal cancer include:

1. Age: risk increases with age, most cases are diagnosed in women over 60 years.
2. Infection of HPV: HPV infection is associated with an increased risk of developing vulva and vaginal cancer.
3. Smoking: smoking increases the risk of developing vulva and vaginal cancer.
4. A weakened immune system: a weakened immune system can increase the risk.
5. Walking states: the presence of precancerous conditions, such as vulvar intraepithelial neoplasia (VIN) or vaginal intraepithelial non -plate (VAIN), increases the risk of cancer.

Symptoms:

Symptoms of vulva cancer may include:

1. Itching, burning or pain in the area of ​​the vulva.
2. Seal, tumor or ulcer on the vulva.
3. Bleeding not related to the menstrual cycle.
4. Changes in the color of the skin of the vulva.

Symptoms of vaginal cancer may include:

1. Abnormal discharge from the vagina.
2. Bloody discharge after intercourse or between menstruation.
3. Pain in the basin.
4. Pain during intercourse.
5. Frequent urination.

Diagnosis and treatment of cancer in women

Diagnosis and treatment of cancer in women is a complex and multi -stage process that requires an individual approach and participation of a multidisciplinary team of specialists, including oncologists, surgeons, radiologists and other doctors.

Diagnostic methods:

To diagnose oncological diseases in women, various methods are used, including:

1. Physical examination: the doctor conducts a physical examination to identify any anomalies.
2. Visualizing research: visualizing research, such as mammography, ultrasound, MRI and CT, are used to obtain images of internal organs and tissues.
3. Biopsy: a biopsy is a procedure in which they take a sample of tissue for research under a microscope. The biopsy is the main method of confirming the diagnosis of cancer.
4. Blood tests: blood tests can be used to identify certain markers that can be increased in cancer.

Treatment methods:

The treatment of cancer in women depends on the type and stage of cancer, as well as on the general state of health of the patient. The main treatment methods include:

1. Surgery: Surgery can be used to remove the tumor and surrounding tissues.
2. Radiation therapy: radiation therapy uses high -energy rays to destroy cancer cells.
3. Chemotherapy: chemotherapy uses drugs to destroy cancer cells.
4. Hormone therapy: hormone therapy is used to treat cancers that are sensitive to hormones, such as breast cancer and endometrial cancer.
5. Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy uses medicines that are aimed at certain molecules in cancer cells.
6. Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the immune system to fight cancer.

Psychological support and quality of life

The diagnosis of cancer can have a huge impact on the psychological state and quality of life of a woman. It is important to provide patients with psychological support and assistance in adaptation to new conditions.

Psychological support:

Psychological support may include:

1. Individual consultations with a psychologist or psychotherapist.
2. Group classes with other patients.
3. Family therapy.
4. Support from friends and family.

Quality of life:

Preservation of the quality of life during and after the treatment of cancer is an important task. Women may need:

1. Rehabilitation programs to restore physical function.
2. Consultations on nutrition to maintain healthy weight and energy.
3. Events aimed at reducing stress and improving mood.
4. Support for solving social and financial problems.

Prevention of cancer in women

Although not all cases of cancer can be prevented, there are measures that women can take to reduce the risk of developing cancer:

1. Maintaining a healthy weight.
2. Regular physical activity.
3. Healthy nutrition with a lot of fruits, vegetables and whole cereals.
4. Refusal of smoking.
5. Restriction of alcohol consumption.
6. Vaccination against HPV.
7. Regular screening for cancer.
8. Consultations with a doctor about risk factors and preventive measures.

Oncological diseases in women are a serious problem that requires special attention. Early diagnosis, effective treatment and psychological support play a key role in improving the prognosis and quality of life of patients. Preventive measures and a healthy lifestyle can also help reduce the risk of cancer. It is important for women to regularly undergo medical examinations and consult a doctor when any suspicious symptoms appear.