From smear tests to taking the pill... Royal Derby Hospital nurse busts common cancer myths
EARLY WARNING SIGNS COULD LEAD TO EARLY DIAGNOSIS AND TREATMENT
A CANCER nurse has revealed how many people are missing out on the chance of an early cancer diagnosis as a result of confusion surrounding certain early warning signs.
Lisa Freeman, a Macmillan cancer information specialist at Royal Derby Hospital, has spoken about a number of myths surrounding gynaecological cancers and how women can spot the signs for early diagnosis.
Lisa argues that gynaecological cancers are more likely to be cured if they are discovered early, but, she says, many women avoid going to see their GP due to confusion over the symptoms.
Here are five common myths about gynaecological cancer, and their relative truths:
Myth 1: There are no early symptoms of gynaecological cancer
Fact: Many ovarian, womb (uterine) or vaginal cancers do have early warning signs.
Common symptoms include: pelvic pain or pressure; itching or burning of the vulva; changes in vulval colour or skin (rash, sores, warts, or ulcers);
changes in bathroom habits (increased peeing, constipation, or diarrhoea); bloating; abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge; pain in the back or stomach.
Unlike other medical conditions with these symptoms, gynaecological cancers generally get worse over time. If you have been treated for other health conditions and these symptoms have not improved, Lisa recommends arranging an appointment with your GP.
If you have gone through menopause and have any vaginal bleeding (even spotting) you should also see your GP.
Myth No 2: Smears can detect all gynaecological cancers.
Fact: A smear test can only detect cervical cancer, not other cancers.
This test can detect cervical cancer early, when treatment is most effective, so it is vital to attend regular smear tests at your GP surgery.
The smear test also helps prevent cervical cancer by finding precancerous cell changes on the cervix. These changes could become cervical cancer if not treated.
Smear tests cannot detect ovarian or womb cancers.
When one of these other types of cancer is suspected, a pelvic exam should be conducted to check for masses or growths.
Other diagnostic tests may also be done.
Myth No. 3: Ovarian cancer is impossible to detect early.
Fact: Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect early because of its vague symptoms and location. But research continues to improve detection and treatment.
Some known factors that can increase your risk include family history, personal history, genetic mutations, age and obesity.
When ovarian cancer is diagnosed and treated early, the five-year survival rate is nearly 93%. Ovarian cancer survival in the UK has almost doubled in the last 40 years.
Myth No. 4: Cervical cancer cannot be prevented.
Fact: The main risk factor for cervical cancer is an infection called the human papilloma virus (HPV).
Some types of HPV can affect the cervix and cause abnormal cell changes that may develop into cervical cancer.
HPV is very common and most people are infected with it at some point.
A vaccine can be used to help prevent HPV infection. Using a condom or other barrier contraception may reduce your risk of HPV infection.
Myth No. 5: Taking the contraceptive pill can increase your risk of getting gynaecological cancers.
Fact: While taking the contraceptive pill for more than five years can increase your risk of cervical cancer, some hormone-based contraceptives have been shown to reduce the risk of uterine, ovarian and endometrial cancer with long-term use.
When in doubt, discuss your risk factors for gynaecological cancer with your GP.
Lisa also recommends that anyone who is concerned about any symptoms they may be experiencing should contact their GP to discuss their concerns.
She said: “Early diagnosis can be key to successful treatment.”