Facts about Gynecologic Cancers

• An estimated 23,300 new cases of ovarian cancer were diagnosed in the U.S. in 2002.
• Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer deaths among woman in the United States.
• An annual Pap smear may reduce the risk of dying from cervical cancer by 90 percent.
• Abnormal bleeding, especially after menopause, is the most common symptom of uterine cancer.
• Ovarian cancer cannot be detected by a Pap smear.
• Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages; however, when diagnosed and treated while the disease is localized, the 5-year survival rate is 90%.

Signs and Symptom

• Vague but persistent gastrointestinal complaints
• Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling
• Unexplained change in bowel habits
• Unexplained weight loss or gain
• New unexplained abnormal postmenopausal bleeding

Risk Factor

• Increasing age, with highest occurrence in women over 50
• Family history of cancer
• Uninterrupted ovulation (infertility, having no pregnancies)

Sources: American Cancer Society, National Cancer Institute, National Ovarian Cancer Coalition.