Which of them are the most common and for which symptoms should you consult a doctor?

Gynecological cancer is now the third most common cancer among women. According to the Spanish Society of Medical Oncology (SEOM), 13,280 new cases have been registered this year. endometrial, ovarian and cervical cancer in Spain. These three types of tumors are the most common, with endometrial tumors being the most common, although there are others such as cancer of the vulva, vagina, or tube.

Each of them has different risk factors. According to Dr. Fernando Colmenarejo, gynecologist and director of the women’s department at the Quironsalud Zaragoza Hospital, ” obesityfor example, is an important variable in endometrial cancer, in addition to diabetes, high blood pressure or polycystic ovary syndrome and others. On the other hand, infertility, early menarche, late menopause, smoking or genetic predisposition are parameters that affect ovarian tumors. In the case of the cervix, the presence of Human papillomavirus (HPV), necessary, but not sufficient in itself to cause suffering from it.” Regarding the latter, the specialist notes that “in recent years there has been a decline due to the development of HPV prevention and vaccination programs.”

Cervicovaginal cytology and high-risk HPV culture are the only proven tests for early detection gynecological cancer, which affects the reduction of mortality among sick women. In particular, early diagnosis increases the likelihood of cure, as well as the possibility of less aggressive treatment.

In addition, prevention is also a fundamental aspect in the fight against this type of tumor. For example, Dr. Elena Aguirre, director of the Quironsalud Institute of Oncology in Zaragoza, notes that “adequate nutrition combined with physical exercise can reduce the risk of developing certain gynecological tumors associated with overweight and obesity, such as endometrial cancer.” As for cervical cancer, measures that minimize the possibility of transmitting HPV are recommended to prevent it, such as usage condoms If the relationship is unstable and vaccinationwhich is part of the regular calendar.

When should I go for a consultation?

patient age This will be crucial when considering the various warning signs that require consultation, preferably with a gynecologist. “Thus, in postmenopausal women, any vaginal bleeding should be investigated, although most of them do not correspond to the presence of cancer,” says Fernando Colmenarejo.

On the other hand, it is advisable to consult a specialist if you suffer coitorrhagia (bleeding during intercourse) or intercyclic hemorrhages (between periods) repeatedly. In turn, “there are tumors such as ovarian tumors that cause late symptoms, including significant abdominal enlargement, pelvic pain, back and abdominal discomfort, increased urination, constipation or diarrhea, anorexia or early satiety,” he adds. Consequently, and because the symptoms are non-specific, 70% of cases are diagnosed at a late stage, making the cancer more aggressive and the leading cause of death from gynecological cancer.

For these reasons it is advisable visit a gynecologist regularly to determine, depending on age and risk factors, the tests that need to be performed and their frequency. “In general, for a young patient who has been vaccinated against HPV and in the absence of symptoms or pathological signs, the first examination is recommended two years after the start of sexual relations or upon reaching the age of 25,” the specialist clarifies.

Latest generation technology

In Quironsalud Zaragoza there is special department of gynecological oncology It is composed of professionals from different fields, which allows for greater specialization, as well as modern equipment. At the surgical level, laparoscopic towers with 4K quality vision and 3D orientation They allow you to perform the sentinel lymph node technique for endometrial and cervical cancer.

In addition, Dr. Colmenarejo points out another major advantage: “A precise analysis of each case and decision-making in collaboration with a committee of experts.” oncogynecological tumorswhich brings together the specialists who will participate in the process, allows for an interdisciplinary approach and comprehensive patient care.”