Cancer Fighters Thrive

SUMMER 2015

Cancer Fighters Thrive is a quarterly print and online magazine bringing readers practical, innovative and inspirational information about cancer treatment and survivorship.

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© 2015 Rising Tide Cancer Treatment Centers of America® (CTCA) is a national network of fi ve hospitals in the U.S. with expertise in treating patients who are fi ghting complex or advanced-stage cancer, although many patients with an early-stage diagnosis seek treatment at CTCA® as well. We combine world-class treatment with an integrative approach to care to reduce side eff ects and maintain quality of life during cancer treatment. If you or someone you love has advanced-stage or complex cancer, call 855-587-5528 or go to cancercenter.com. Atlanta Chicago Philadelphia Phoenix Tulsa References: 1. Get the Facts About Gynecologic Cancer, CDC http://www.cdc.gov/cancer/knowledge/pdf/CDC_GYN_Comprehensive_Brochure.pdf 2. National Cancer Institute, 2014. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/endometrial 3. National Cancer Institute, 2014. www.cancer.gov/cancertopics/types/ovarian IF YOU'RE DIAGNOSED Find a comprehensive cancer center that provides excellent care with an integrative, multidisciplinary team, preferably with one or more dedicated gynecologic oncologists on staff . These specialists focus specifi cally on treating gynecologic cancer and have specifi c training and expertise to off er. Your gynecologic oncologist can orchestrate a team of experts including dietitians, counselors, physical therapists, acupuncturists, and nurses and other clinicians working to treat your cancer and make you as comfortable as possible throughout your treatment. TAKE PREVENTIVE ACTION You can play an active role in reducing your chance of developing gynecologic cancers. A key factor for survival of these cancers is early diagnosis. Make healthy choices for yourself, such as a well-balanced diet, an active lifestyle, quitting or avoiding smoking, maintaining a healthy weight, and safe sex practices. Pay attention to your body—being in tune with your body makes it easier to detect abnormalities. Make time for an annual physical. A Pap test is an important check for abnormal cells in the cervix, because in most cases of cervical cancer there are no noticeable symptoms. Routine pelvic exams may also improve the likelihood of early detection for endometrial cancer. For women over 30, the HPV test screens for high-risk HPV strains that may lead to cervical cancer. Educate yourself on your health history and your family's health history. Having close relatives on either side of the family who have had ovarian cancer increases a woman's chance of getting ovarian cancer herself. KNOW THE WARNING SIGNS Common signs of endometrial cancer are vaginal bleeding after menopause, bleeding in between periods, very painful cramps and pelvic pain, and abnormal discharge. Ovarian cancer tends to be diagnosed at a more advanced stage, because there is no routine screening test for it. The signs may be diff erent for each woman, and when present, some common symptoms are abdominal bloating, indigestion or nausea, changes in appetite such as loss of appetite or feeling full sooner than normal, feeling pressure in the pelvis or lower back, changes in bowel movements, increased abdominal girth, and feeling tired or having low energy. When present, common symptoms for cervical cancer are vaginal bleeding in between periods, after intercourse or post-menopause; unusual vaginal discharge that is watery, pink and foul-smelling; pelvic pain; weight loss; fatigue; back pain; and leakage of urine or feces from the vagina. " Understand your own risk factors—and your family history—and have an open dialog with your primary care physician." DR. MAURIE MARKMAN, PRESIDENT OF MEDICINE & SCIENCE, CANCER TREATMENT CENTERS OF AMERICA® Fertility is an important consideration for any woman diagnosed with cancer, especially gynecologic cancer. Depending on your age, diagnosis and type of cancer treatment recommended (e.g., chemotherapy, radiation therapy, surgery), you should talk with your doctor about options for preserving fertility. It is crucial to have this conversation as early as possible after diagnosis, when the most options remain open to you. Key questions to ask your doctor: 1. What eff ects will the recommended cancer treatments have on my fertility? 2. What can be done before starting treatment to preserve my fertility? Advertisement

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