September marks Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, a time when we spotlight the importance of early detection and education in the fight against gynecologic cancers. These cancers, which include ovarian, cervical, uterine, vaginal, and vulvar cancers, are often overshadowed by more well-known types of cancer, like breast or lung cancer.
In the United States alone, it's estimated that over 106,000 women will receive gynecologic cancer diagnoses in 2023, with approximately 32,000 lives at risk. These numbers underscore the urgency of raising attention, particularly given the potential for improved outcomes through early detection.
Prevention and early detection are essential. Regular screenings and vaccinations, such as the HPV vaccine for cervical cancer prevention, are strongly encouraged. It's vital to educate women about risk factors and symptoms, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month also empowers women to take control of their health. It promotes open and honest communication between healthcare providers and patients, creating supportive and judgment-free environments for discussing concerns, symptoms, and risk factors.
If you are looking for ways to get involved or to learn more, Move4Her has a fitness and celebration event that will unite caregivers, fitness professionals, organizations, and survivors. You may register to attend on their website for the event which takes place on September 23rd, online or in person at the National Press Club, Washington, D.C. from 10:30 am to Noon ET.
Let's renew our commitment to raising awareness, supporting research, and providing compassionate care to those affected. Together, we can work toward a future where the burden of these diseases is significantly reduced, and women everywhere can lead healthier, cancer-free lives.
Check out our related resources at Himmelfarb:
- Sanfilippo's Textbook of Pediatric and Adolescent Gynecology
- Office Gynecology: A Case-Based Approach
- Beckmann and Ling's Obstetrics and Gynecology
- Cervical Cancer: Screening, Treatment, and Prevention: Universal Protocols for Ultimate Control
- Tumors of the Uterine Corpus and Gestational Trophoblastic Diseases
#GynecologicCancerAwarenessMonth, #GCAM, #MoveTheMessage, #Move4Her
