Keeping Cancer In Check
Knowledge is power in the fight against cancer. Early detection and education is critical. Here’s some basic information about the most common types of cancer affecting women. Talk to your physician about your risks and what steps you can take to fight back.
Lung Cancer
Lung cancer kills more than 70,000 women each year, more than breast, uterine and ovarian cancer combined. Smoking is the primary cause of lung cancer, but an estimated 10 to 15 percent of lung cancer victims are non-smokers. Indeed, among non-smokers, women are two to three times more likely to get the disease than men.
Breast Cancer
One in eight women will be affected by breast cancer, which is the second deadliest form of cancer for women. A monthly self-exam is one of the best ways to detect the early signs of breast cancer. After the age of 40, an annual mammogram exam is recommended.
Uterine Cancer
Each year in the United States, there are almost 40,000 new cases of uterine cancer, which usually occurs after menopause. Symptoms include unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge, pelvic pain, trouble urinating and pain during intercourse.
Cervical Cancer
The cervix is the organ connecting the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer was once one the most common causes of cancer death in women. Thanks to the Pap test, however, deaths from cervical cancer have declined dramatically in recent years. You should have a Pap test every one to three years if you have been sexually active or are older than 21.
Ovarian Cancer
Although it can affect younger women, ovarian cancer usually occurs in women over 50. Ovarian cancer has no symptoms or very mild symptoms, so it is very hard to detect. These symptoms may include heavy feeling in the pelvis, bleeding from the vagina, abnormal periods, pain in the lower abdomen, and unexplained back pain.
Word count = 308 words