Vaginal and Vulvar Cancer
Vaginal Cancer Overview
Vaginal cancer is one of the rarest types of gynecologic cancers, accounting
for only three percent of reproductive cancers. Originating in the lining
of the vagina, it most often affects women between the ages of 50 and
70 years old.
Since many vaginal cancers are associated with the Human Papillomavirus
(HPV) types 16 and 18, vaginal cancer can be prevented at a young age
by getting an HPV vaccination.
Vulvar Cancer Overview
Vulvar cancer is also quite uncommon—statistics show that only 4,000
cases occur in the United States annually. Originating as a tumor in the
external genitalia, vulvar cancer is highly curable when detected at an
early stage. However, treatment can have negative effects on body image,
sexual function as well as bladder and rectal function.
Vulvar cancers may also be associated with HPV, so vaccination at an early
age is an important step toward prevention. Examination of the vulva for
changes, either by you or your physician, can be your best ally for early
detection.
Download the Gynecologic Cancer Care PDF.
