Most forms of women's cancers have a high survival rate if the cancer is detected and treated in its early stages. Some women's cancers, such as breast cancer, are relatively easy to detect at an early stage, whereas other forms, like ovarian cancer, may be much more difficult to detect until the later stages. The use of early detection and prevention methods to catch cancer in the early stages greatly increases a woman's chance of long-term survival.




There are more cases of breast cancer in women than any other form of cancer (excluding skin cancer). Regular screenings for cancer is a woman's best defense.


A mammography is an X-ray study of the breast, and is the most effective way to test for breast cancer. Each breast is X-rayed for signs of cancer with special equipment designed to show images of the breast. Women aged 40 and over should have this procedure done on an annual basis.


A clinical breast exam is a physical breast examination by a doctor, nurse, or health professional that checks for changes in the size or shape of the breast, as well as any lumps or changes in texture. It is recommended that this procedure be performed every three years for women age 20 through 39. Women age 40 and over should have a clinical breast exam performed on an annual basis in conjunction with a mammogram.


A breast self-exam is a physical breast examination performed by the woman herself to check for any lumps or changes in size, shape, or texture of the entire breast. Women who are age 20 or older should perform this examination every month.


Ovarian cancer has a 95% survival rate if caught in its earliest stages. Unfortunately, only 25% of ovarian cancers are caught early.


A routine pelvic exam is an examination of the pelvic area performed by a physician or healthcare professional to check for signs of cancer. Women should start having yearly pelvic exams at age 18, or when they become sexually active, whichever comes first.


A trans-vaginal sonography is an ultrasound conducted in conjunction with blood tests, and is used to check for signs of women's cancers. Trans-vaginal sonographies are usually performed on women who are at very high risk due to their family medical history.

Various studies have shown that certain factors may decrease a woman's chances of developing one or more forms of women's cancers.


Having one or more children, especially before the age of 30, and breastfeeding may decrease a woman's chances of developing breast, ovarian, and uterine cancers.


Birth control pills decrease the chances of ovarian and uterine cancer, but at the same time they may slightly increase the risk for breast cancer.


The tying of the fallopian tubes to prevent pregnancy may also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.


In order to reduce the risk of disease, it's important to exercise on a regular basis, eat well-balanced meals with lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains, while limiting animal and saturated fats. Risk factor for all cancers include: smoking, obesity, excessive alcohol use, and sexually transmitted diseases.