Gynaecological cancers – an overview

As part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness month, The Pennine Acute Hospitals NHS Trust is inviting staff, patients, the public and its members to attend a free Gynaecological Cancer Awareness presentation.

According to Cancer Research UK, Gynaecological cancers account for 12% of all UK cancers, responsible for almost 10% of female deaths in the UK. In 2010, 160,000 new female cancers were diagnosed in the UK.

Ovarian Cancer
The UK treats approximately 7,000 new cases of ovarian cancer per year and is the leading cause of death amongst gynaecological cancers. Survival from ovarian cancer has almost doubled over the last 30 years; over 1000 more women per year in England and Wales are now surviving ovarian cancer for at least 5 years and women with early stage ovarian cancer have survival rates in excess of 70%.

Endometrial (womb) cancer
It is recognised that the most common symptom of womb cancer is abnormal bleeding from the vagina. This is particularly common in women who have been through the menopause and stopped having periods.

Cervical Cancer
The most common symptom of cervical cancer is bleeding from the vagina at times other than during your period. It may be the bleeding occurs between periods, after or during sex or even if you are past the menopause. It is important to regularly attend for cervical smears as the earlier that abnormal cells are treated the less likely they are to develop into cancer cells. It is also much easier to treat cervical cancer if it is caught early.

Julie Dale, Gynaecology Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist from The Pennine Acute Trust, who will be giving the presentation said: “There are different types of gynaecological cancer. We want to help raise awareness among women and offer advice and support.

"The main symptoms can be very general and it is important to recognize what is normal for you and if you notice any abnormal changes it is recommended to seek advice from your GP as soon as possible. It is important that if you develop any symptoms related to gynaelogical cancers and they occur on a regular basis, to get them checked by your doctor. If further investigations are required you will be referred to our specialist team. The earlier any cancer is diagnosed, the greater chance there is of survival.”

The free talk will be given by Julie Dale, Gynaecology Macmillan Clinical Nurse Specialist, and held at the education centre at The Royal Oldham Hospital, 3pm – 4pm on Wednesday 27 March.

The event is free and is open to the public and staff. To book your place contact Angela Greenwood on 01706 517302 or email ft.membership@pat.nhs.uk