What is Gynaecology Oncology?

What is Gynaecology-Oncology?

Gynaecology-oncology is a specialised field of medicine that focuses on the management of pre-cancerous and cancerous conditions of the female reproductive system.

Types of Gynaecological Cancer:

Cervical cancer occurs in the cervix, the neck-like structure at the base of the uterus, connecting the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer is preventable by HPV vaccination, regular pap smears and HPV tests.
Endometrial cancer occurs in the lining of the uterus.
Ovarian cancer occurs within the ovaries, the female reproductive organs in which eggs and the female sex hormones (oestrogen and progesterone) are produced.
Fallopian tube cancer occurs in the fallopian tubes which connect the ovaries and the uterus.
Peritoneal cancer occurs in the peritoneum, a thin, delicate sheet that lines the inside wall of the abdomen and covers the uterus, extending over the bladder and rectum.
Uterine cancer occurs in the uterus, also known as the womb, a muscular organ that responds to hormone stimulation during the female menstrual cycle.
Vaginal cancer occurs in the vagina - the elastic and muscular tube, also called the birth canal, connecting the external genitalia to the internal reproductive organs.
Vulvar cancer occurs in the vulva, the external structures of the female genitalia, which includes the opening of the vagina and its glands.

Gynaecological Cancer Risk Factors

All women are at risk for developing gynaecological cancers. There are no definite causes of gynaecologic cancers to date. However, recognizable risk factors include:

HPV infection
Previous history of cancer
Diabetes
Obesity
Smoking
Old age
Family history

Beacon Hospital consists of a team of experienced surgeons and oncologist in managing gynaecological cancer. Other than surgery, we offer a wide range of cancer treatments including radiotherapy and chemotherapy.