Gynecologic Cancer

Every six minutes, an American woman is diagnosed with gynecologic cancer, including cervical, endometrial, ovarian, peritoneal, tubal, vaginal and vulvar cancers.

Endometrial cancer of the uterus, sometimes referred to as uterine cancer, is the most common cancer of the reproductive system while ovarian is the fifth most common cause of cancer deaths in women. This condition most frequently affects older women, with the incidence increasing significantly at the time of menopause.

Cervical cancer usually affects women between 40 and 55 years of age, with 16,000 cases of invasive cervical cancer diagnosed annually in the United States. Pap smears are an effective screening tool.

Women who have an abnormal Pap smear can seek care at the UCSF's Dysplasia Clinic, which also treats genital warts, vulvar disease or pain and anogenital dysplasia, an alteration in the skin of the cervix, vagina, vulva or anus, which if left untreated, can become cancerous. These problems often are caused by an infection called the human papillomarivus (HPV), a common virus causing changes in skin that sometimes result in genital warts. Screening and treatment of HPV disease of the anal canal are available to men and women.

At the UCSF Helen Diller Family Comprehensive Cancer Center, our team — including gynecologic cancer surgeons, radiation specialists and specially trained nurses — offers innovative, compassionate care in a supportive environment. Our services cover screening exams, diagnostic imaging, treatments such as surgery and radiation, advice on the latest therapies available, patient education and other specialized services. Genetic counseling for high-risk families also is provided.

Visit our online bookstore to see books written and recommended by the staff of the UCSF Cancer Resource Center.

See Our Videos — UCTV Video, Real Player
Clues About New Treatments and Early Detection
Fighting Cancer — Progress Report, Look to the Future
Wellness — Avoiding Cancer and Getting the Best Care

Reviewed by health care specialists at UCSF Medical Center.
Last updated March 7, 2008