Gynaecologic Oncology is a subspecialty of Obstetrics and Gynecology that focuses on diagnosing and treating women with cancers of the reproductive system. Cancers can occur in any part of the female reproductive system the vulva, vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, or ovaries. These cancers are called gynaecologic cancers. Each woman with gynaecological cancer has unique medical and emotional needs.
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial carcinoma, is the abnormal (malignant) growth of cells that comprise uterine tissue. Currently, we are seeing a rising incidence in endometrial carcinoma cases. Almost 75 per cent of these cancers develop in postmenopausal women, with < 5 per cent of cancers seen in women under 40 years of age.
Stage I: Cancer is confined to the uterus, 70-80 per cent of uterine cancers are diagnosed in Stage I
Stage II/III Cancer has spread outside of the uterus. As it progresses, it may spread to the pelvic lymph nodes and other pelvic organs.
Stage IV: Cancer has spread to the lymph nodes and on to the lungs, liver, bones, brain, and vagina
Cervical cancer is a malignant tumour of the cervix, the lowermost part of the uterus. India contributes almost one-third of new cases diagnosed worldwide, and unfortunately 70-90 per cent of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Cervical cancer is preventable, as there is an effective screening test available to detect precancerous changes that can be treated; thus, progression to cancer can be stopped.
