As the 1950's daughter of a mom who took DES this type cancer holds a special interest to me. "DES (Diethylstilbestrol) is a synthetic form of estrogen that was prescribed between 1938 and 1971 to help women with certain complications of pregnancy. DES has been linked to clear cell adenocarcinoma, an uncommon cancer of the vagina or cervix, in daughters of women who used DES during pregnancy."*
I've been tested somewhat extensively since the 80's and so far nothing has turned up. But it is important for all women to know about their risks, what the signs are and what can help prevent these cancers specific to our gender.
"Gynecologic Cancer is cancer of the female reproductive system, which includes cervical cancer, endometrial/uterine cancer, ovarian cancer, vaginal cancer, vulvar cancer and peritoneal cancer. In the last two decades, considerable gains have been made in the detection and treatment of these cancers. When detected in early stages, most gynecologic cancers have a good cure rate.
What you can do…
See your health care provider for a pelvic exam and Pap smear annually.
Use condoms to reduce the risk of all sexually transmitted diseases.
See your health care provider if you experience any vaginal bleeding between periods or postmenopausal bleeding, vaginal discharge or bleeding after intercourse, unusual abdominal bloating or changes in bladder or bowel function.
Quit smoking.
Maintain a healthy body weight.
Discuss your cancer risk factors and family history with your health care provider."
From http://www.cpmc.org/services/women/health/Gyn-cancers.html
And a couple more suggestions from me:
Watch this short, well-done video to become more informed about the dangers of gynecological cancer.
Share this information with a woman you love.
http://www.cancervideo.tv/video/K72MY6UKO16O/Gynecologic-Cancer
* Parker Waichman Alonso
Subscribe to:
Post Comments (Atom)
No comments:
Post a Comment