How can I be proactive to support Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month?

September is Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month and Hoag is offering steps every woman can take to manage her risk for gynecologic cancer and learn the warning signs to ensure an early diagnosis. The Foundation for Women's Cancer proposes that women follow these three steps:

1. Learn – about the risk factors and symptoms of gynecologic cancer
2. Listen – to your body
3. Act – to reduce your risk and take preventive steps, seek care first from a gynecologist oncologist if you suspect or have been diagnosed with gynecologic cancer.

How can I start reducing my risk for gynecologic cancer?

Every woman is at risk for developing gynecologic cancer, so it is important do regular self-examinations and screenings to help in the early detection of certain types of gynecologic cancers.

Additionally, women should be mindful of their diet, exercise and lifestyle choices as they play a vital role in the prevention of gynecologic cancer. Maintaining a healthy diet is a crucial part of being proactive with your health and eating specific foods can help reduce your risk of developing cancer. The Foundation for Women's Cancer is featuring two important tools this year for mananging weight:

1. Obesity Toolkit from Society of Gynecologic Oncology
2. Patient's Guide to Losing Weight to Reduce Risk of Endometrial Cancer

Finally, women should become familiar with their family history since this knowledge can increase the chance of prevention or early diagnosis. It is important to do an assessment of your health, including details on previous surgeries, medication and exercise routines, as well as ask your immediate relatives about cancer diagnosis’ in the family so you can become more aware about your risks.

Where can I learn more about gynecologic cancer?

If you would like additional information about the types of gynecologic cancer and other ways to get informed and involved this September, please visit http://wcn.org/.