Each year in the United States, more than 100,000 women are diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, and more than 30,000 lose their lives to these diseases. September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, a time to raise awareness about prevention, early detection, and treatment of the five main types of gynecologic cancers:

  • Cervical cancer – Strongly linked to HPV infection. Screening with Pap and HPV tests can detect changes early. Mostly preventable now with vaccination. Smoking can also increase your risk.
  • Ovarian cancer – Sometimes called the “silent killer” because symptoms may be vague (bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling uncomfortably full after eating only a small amount of food).
  • Uterine (endometrial) cancer – The most common gynecologic cancer in the U.S. According to the CDC, the rates have increased 8% every year since 2013. More prevalent in women with obesity. Abnormal bleeding is the earliest sign.
  • Vaginal cancer and Vulvar cancer – Rare cancers, often linked to HPV, that can (sometimes) be detected through regular exams.

Why Awareness Matters

Gynecologic cancers don’t always have obvious warning signs, which means they can go undetected until later stages. Early detection saves lives. Cervical cancer, for example, has dropped dramatically in recent decades thanks to widespread screening and HPV vaccination. Yet other gynecologic cancers, like ovarian cancer, are often found at advanced stages, making awareness and education critical.

Steps Women Can Take

  • Stay on schedule with annual exams. Routine gynecologic visits help detect problems early.
  • Keep up with recommended screenings. Pap and HPV tests are powerful tools for prevention.
  • Consider the HPV vaccine for your children. Vaccination can prevent most cases of cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers, as well as throat and penile cancers.
  • Know your body. Pay attention to changes such as abnormal bleeding, persistent bloating, or pelvic pain.
  • Know your family history. Genetic factors such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations increase your risk for ovarian and uterine cancers.
  • Take care of yourself. Do your best to maintain a healthy body weight and exercise daily. It makes a difference.

This September, let’s work together to spread awareness, encourage preventive care, and remind women that early action can save lives.