Female Reproductive System Cancers
Female genital system cancers are serious types of cancer that affect female reproductive organs such as uterus, ovary, cervix, vulva and vagina, and constitute an important public health problem for women's health worldwide. Cervical cancer is one of the cancers that can be prevented with early diagnosis and HPV vaccine, and is one of the main causes of cancer deaths in women in developing countries. Because ovarian cancer often progresses without obvious symptoms, it is usually in an advanced stage when diagnosed. Uterine (endometrial) cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, and good treatment results can be achieved with early diagnosis.
The importance of these types of cancer is increasing due to the difficulties in their diagnosis and treatment and their impact on women's health. Preventive health services such as regular smear tests and HPV screenings, especially for cervical cancer, ensure early diagnosis. Additionally, awareness of risk factors such as genetic predisposition and lifestyle factors is critical for the prevention and early diagnosis of female genital tract cancers. Fighting female genital system cancers requires various strategies at both individual and social levels. Increasing individuals' health awareness, facilitating access to early diagnosis and effective treatment methods, and comprehensive public health policies for women's health play a central role in combating these types of cancer. The importance of these cancers remains central to efforts to protect and promote women's health and is a continuing priority for the global health community. Female genital tract cancers include various types of cancer that affect the female reproductive organs.
These cancers are:
Cervical Cancer (Cervical Cancer): It develops in the cells of the cervix and is often associated with human papillomavirus (HPV) infection.
Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer): It begins in the endometrium, the inner layer of the uterus. It is more common in postmenopausal women.
Ovarian Cancer (Ovarian Cancer): It occurs in the ovaries and may not show obvious symptoms in the early stages.
Fallopian Tube Cancer: It develops in the fallopian tubes and can show symptoms similar to ovarian cancer.
Vulva Cancers: It develops in the cells of the vulva (external genital organs) and is usually seen in older women.
Vaginal Cancer: It starts in the vaginal cells and is extremely rare.
These types of cancer can affect different parts of the female reproductive system, causing a variety of symptoms. Diagnosis and treatment methods vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Early detection plays an important role in the treatment of these cancers and can be facilitated by regular screenings.