Gynecologic Cancers: Causes, Risk Factors, Prevention

Research suggests that some sexually transmitted viruses (e.g., human papilloma virus) can cause cervical cells to begin the changes that can lead to cancer. Other causes of gynecological cancers are unknown.

These factors increase your chance of developing gynecological cancer. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors:

• Age: 50-60
• Obesity
• High blood pressure
• Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometrial polyps
• Infertility
• No history of pregnancy
• Early start of menstrual periods
• Late menopause
• Diabetes
• Family history, especially in mother, sister or daughter
• Prior cancer
• Certain gene mutations, including BRCA1 and BRCA2
• History of human papilloma virus (HPV)

These factors increase your chance of developing cervical cancer. Tell your doctor if you have any of these risk factors

• Mother took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy
• Multiple sexual partners
• Sexual activity prior to age 18
• First pregnancy prior to age 20
• Smoking

Use of birth control pills for more than five years appears to decrease the risk of ovarian cancer.

All women should have yearly pelvic exams and Pap screenings to monitor any changes that may signal cancer.