World Gynaecology Oncology Day

World Gynaecology Oncology Day

Friday, 20^th September. Dublin. Today is World GO Day or World Gynaecologic Oncology Day where patients and advocates around the globe unite to raise awareness about all five gynaecological cancers (vulval, vaginal, cervical, uterine and ovarian) and their risk factors and to combat the stigma associated with gynaecological cancer. The Irish Network for Gynaecological Oncology, a voluntary coordination body consisting of thirty of Ireland’s foremost gynecological cancer campaigners, researchers and patient advocates aim to educate people about the importance of sharing information in relation to prevention, symptoms, early diagnosis and treatment.

In the Republic of Ireland, over 1400 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed annually, representing over 12% of female cancers. (*) In Northern Ireland on average 587 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed per year, also representing 12% of female cancers. (**)

Gynaecological cancers are among the most common cancers affecting women, but public awareness of these cancers remains worryingly low.

Symptoms of gynaecological cancers vary, depending on the type of cancer. A broad spectrum of gynaecological cancer symptoms may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding
• Pelvic pain
• Vaginal bleeding during or after sexual intercourse
• Persistent abdominal swelling or bloating
• Unintended weight gain or loss
• Persistent bowel changes, like diarrhoea or constipation

If you have persistent symptoms for longer than two weeks, then you should talk to your GP.

Dr Sharon O’Toole, Trinity College Dublin and coordinator of the INGO “encourages women not to ignore symptoms and to go to their GP if something is not normal for them, earlier detection improves outcomes”

This World GO Day, Fri 20^th Sept, INGO are hosting a free webinar at 1pm for anyone who would like to learn more about the five gynae cancers and their symptoms, with insights from cancer patients and medical professionals. Register for the webinar at https://bit.ly/GO_symptoms

Throughout September, people are invited to take part in a Dip or Dance events taking place all over the country to raise awareness for gynae cancers and to remind women that maintaining a healthy weight and staying active can reduce the risk of developing uterine cancer. Details for your nearest event can be found here: https://thisisgo.ie/

For more information, please visit:                             

www.thisisGO.ie 

(*) National Cancer Registry Ireland Annual Report 2023 Cancer in Ireland 1994 – 2021

(**) Northern Ireland Cancer Registry www.qub.ac.uk/nicr 2017-2021