We devote this issue of Cancer Update to gynaecological cancers. These are the cancers of the female genital tract. Involving the ovaries, cervix, uterus and the fallopian tubes, these together account for the most frequent group next only to breast cancer in female patients. Individually, they are a major health problem for Singapore females with cancers of the ovary, cervix and uterus asserting to be the 4 th, 5 th and 7 th most common cancer.

Like most cancers, these malignancies require a multidisciplinary input. The role of generalists cannot be undermined; as it has been through screening strategies that cervical cancer incidence has declined worldwide. Singapore also now has a well-planned screening program that has nearly decreased by half the incidence over last 30-years. Health education, good screening, able pathologists, gynecologic surgeons, radiologists, radiation oncologists and medical oncologists all play an important role in the battle against these cancers.

The saga continues beyond treatment with important issues like preservation/restoration of fertility. With better understanding of the pathogenesis, cervical cancer is becoming a second cancer after hepatoma, where vaccine against the causative virus may prove to be an epidemiological breakthrough. Read on this issue as all these innovations unveil.

 

Dr Sandeep K Rajan
Editor, Cancer Update