September was Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month (GCAM) and the Foundation for Women’s Cancer. formerly the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation, raised awareness of the major gynecologic cancers through their GCAM Toolkit named Learn, Listen, Act.
Every woman is at risk for developing gynecologic cancer. Gynecologic cancers are the growth and spreading of abnormal cells in the female reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus, vulva, and vagina. There are many factors that may contribute to an increased risk for the development of these cancers, including exposure to the Human Papillomavirus (HPV) and a genetic propensity toward acquiring these diseases (family history). Regular screenings and self-examinations can detect gynecologic cancers early on. The earlier a cancer is diagnosed, the better the chances are for effective treatment.
The Learn, Listen, Act Toolkit focuses on three major types of gynecologic cancer: 1) Cervical cancer; 2) Ovarian cancer; and 3) Uterine cancer:
- Cervical cancer can be caused by HPV infection, making it preventable. Regular Pap tests and HPV testing, are important in preventing cervical pre-cancer and cancer. Common symptoms of this disease can include but are not limited to excessive discharge and abnormal bleeding between menstruation and bleeding after intercourse.
- Ovarian cancer is the fifth leading cancer-related cause of death in women, and the leading cause amongst gynecologic cancers. It is important to have a clear diagnosis made during the most curable early stages. Symptoms of ovarian cancer may include but are not limited to bloating, difficulty eating or quick to feel full, abdominal or pelvic pain and bleeding, and/or increased urinary urgency or frequency.
- Uterine cancer develops most often in menopausal woman, though younger women are also at risk. Endometrial cancer is the most common uterine cancer, and is also the most common gynecologic cancer. Its symptoms include but are not limited to irregular, heavy or otherwise abnormal vaginal bleeding, and bleeding after menopause.
It is a healthcare provider’s responsibility to assess a patient’s history of complaints and abnormalities, as well as family history; and, based upon the presentation of a patient, to perform appropriate and timely diagnostic studies.
If your physician failed to diagnose or misdiagnosed your ovarian cancer or any gynecologic cancer, contact the experienced ovarian cancer misdiagnosis lawyers in New Jersey at Blume Forte. We will examine the details of your potential claim to determine whether you may have a meritorious case. For a no-cost consultation, call us at 973-845-4421.