Vaginal And Vulvar Cancers -The Lesser-Known Gynaecologic Cancers

Hubli : In a significant move outlined in the Interim Budget 2024, the government has announced prioritization of cervical cancer vaccination for young girls aged 9 to 14. This initiative forms a part of the broader strategy to combat cancer, with a focus on well-recognized types such as cervical and breast cancers.
However, Dr. Milind Shetti, a Consultant Radiation Oncologist at HCG NMR Cancer Centre in Hubli, emphasizes the critical need to bring attention to the lesser-known gynaecologic cancers, specifically vulvar and vaginal cancers.
Despite their rarity, vulvar and vaginal cancers pose serious health risks and are often termed silent killers due to their subtle symptoms and consequently late diagnosis. These cancers start in the vagina’s lining and the external genitalia, respectively, making early detection and awareness pivotal for effective care and positive outcomes.
The Silent Killers That Demand Attention
The medical community is advocating for increased education and awareness regarding these less prominent yet impactful cancers. Through educational programs, seminars, and community outreach, the aim is to equip individuals with the knowledge needed to recognize early warning signs and seek medical intervention promptly.
Symptoms such as persistent itching, tenderness, changes in skin color, or the development of lumps in the vulvar area, alongside unusual vaginal bleeding or pain during intercourse, are critical indicators that require immediate attention.
Early Detection: Key to Successful Outcomes
Dr. Shetti stresses the importance of early detection in improving prognosis and treatment results for vulvar and vaginal malignancies. Routine pelvic examinations, screenings, and advanced diagnostic measures like biopsies and imaging studies are fundamental in identifying these cancers at an early stage.
Understanding risk factors, including HPV infection, smoking, weakened immune systems, and chronic skin issues, is essential for prevention. Advocacy for preventive measures such as HPV vaccination, regular medical exams, and adopting a healthy lifestyle are pivotal steps in reducing the incidence of these diseases.
Comprehensive Care for a Better Future
The approach to caring for patients with vulvar and vaginal cancers extends beyond medical treatment. Emotional support, psychological counseling, and addressing intimacy concerns are crucial for a holistic care model. By fostering an environment of comprehensive care and support, the medical community aims to not only treat these cancers effectively but also enhance the quality of life for those affected.
As efforts to combat well-known cancers continue, the spotlight on vulvar and vaginal cancers underscores the importance of awareness, early detection, and a supportive care system in the fight against these lesser-known gynaecologic malignancies.