“GO for testing, GO for prevention, GO for the right treatment” is the motto chosen this year for the World Gynaecologic Oncology Day, on September 20, an initiative of ENGAGe, the European net of organizations working on the prevention and treatment of these diseases, in close collaboration with the European Society of Gynaecologic Oncology (ESGO). Gynaecological cancer is the term commonly used to embrace all malignant tumours of the female reproductive system, namely: Ovarian and fallopian tube cancer (in Portugal, around 600 new cases are diagnosed every year, with a greater incidence in women between 60 to 70 years of age, but it can also affect younger women); Uterine cancer , including endometrial cancer (the most common gynaecological cancer in Portugal) and cervical cancer (in most cases, caused by human papillomavirus – HPV – and having greater incidence in the 50s age group); Vulvar cancer (a rare condition, being diagnosed at an early stage in about 60% of patients, mostly between 65-80 years of age); Vaginal cancer (a rare condition and highly related with an HPV infection, affecting most of all women under 40); Other tumours even rarer, such as uterine sarcoma and trophoblastic tumours. “Maintaining a regular follow-up in gynaecological consultations and taking the exams and recommended screenings is fundamental to prevent these diseases and, in case they are diagnosed, to treat better”, highlights João Casanova , the coordinator of the Gynaecologic Oncology Unit at Hospital da Luz Lisboa, where a multidisciplinary team treats all types of gynaecological cancer, following the latest recommendations. The health surveillance of women includes regular consultations and exams viewing to prevent gynaecological cancer, such as: Pap smear or cervical cytology test; Human papillomavirus (HPV) screening; Genetic testing (when indicated); HPV vaccine. Remember: Be vigilant of your health and maintain a healthy life style. Do not delay seeking medical care in case of particular symptoms, such as haemorrhage out of the menstrual period or in menopause, pain or pelvic discomfort. In Hospital da Luz network, a total of 24 hospitals and clinics offer consultations and exams in Gynaecology-Obstetrics. And in at least five of them, specialized physicians give Gynaecological Oncology consultations.
