One in Seven Women in Ireland Avoid GP Visits Due to Embarrassment Discussing Symptoms
End the Stigma surrounding gynaecological cancers this World Gynaecologic Oncology Day
- Almost 2,000 Women Diagnosed with Gynaecological Cancers Across Ireland Annually
- Only two in five recognise abnormal bleeding or discharge as symptom of uterine cancer
- Only a quarter of women identify changes in urinary habits as symptom of vaginal cancer
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 (INGO), a voluntary coordination body consisting of over 30 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.
Research commissioned by INGO shows that stigma surrounding gynaecological cancers and their symptoms can prevent some women from attending their doctor with warning signs.
One in seven women in Ireland said they would not attend a doctor with cancer warning signs as they find it embarrassing to discuss symptoms, and one in five would not go to the doctor as they do not want to talk to the GP receptionist about symptoms. Furthermore, one in three would not attend if they found it difficult to get an appointment with a particular doctor.
Dr. Claire Thompson, consultant gynaecologist at The Mater Hospital said, ‘Early detection is crucial for improving survival rates among those with gynaecological cancers. Women need to attend their GP as early as possible if they are worried about potential cancer symptoms. There is no reason to feel embarrassed when speaking about gynaecological issues, especially with medical professionals.’
In the Republic of Ireland, over 1400 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed annually, representing over 12% of female cancers.[i] In Northern Ireland on average 587 gynaecological cancers are diagnosed per year, also representing 12% of female cancers.[ii]
Public awareness of gynaecological cancers remains worryingly low. This lack of awareness is also impacting women’s GP attendance as one in seven would not go to a doctor with cancer warning signs as they don’t feel confident talking about symptoms.
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
These are common symptoms of gynaecological cancers, but there are more symptoms that relate specifically to each type. If you have persistent symptoms for longer than two weeks, then you should talk to your GP.
This World GO Day, Fri 20th September, INGO are hosting a free webinar at 1pm for anyone who would like to learn more about the five gynaecological cancers and their symptoms, with insights from cancer patients and medical professionals. Register for the webinar at https://bit.ly/GO_symptoms
The campaign also highlights the misconceptions that exist surrounding cervical screening, as research shows that one in three women in Ireland (34%) mistakenly believe that cervical screening checks for all five gynaecological cancers.
Dr. Úna Kennedy, GP advisor to the National Cancer Control Programme (NCCP) said, ‘The CervicalCheck screening programme tests for certain types of human papillomavirus (HPV) that cause 9 in 10 cervical cancers, and provides for further tests and treatment, if needed. Cervical screening is not a test for cancer, it's a test to see if you are at risk of developing cervical cancer. While it is incredibly important that women choose to go for cervical screening when they are invited, it is also essential that they never ignore symptoms. Even if you have had a normal screening test result, it’s important to be aware of all five gynaecological cancers, and their symptoms.’
Due to the tumour location and nature of the symptoms and treatments of gynaecological cancers, gynaecologic cancer patients can run up against various societal stigmas. Mairead McMahon, vulval cancer patient says, ‘I know it can be embarrassing to speak about gynaecological issues, even with close family and friends. Throughout my treatment I made a point of speaking openly with my husband and daughters about my experience and tried to not shy away from the reality of having vulvar cancer. I think it is so important to speak about all aspects of women’s health - from periods and menopause to pregnancy and hormones. Our bodies change so much during our lives and sometimes it is hard to tell what changes are normal and what could be warning signs of something more serious. Women need to know what to look out for and feel empowered to speak up and seek help if they need it.’
Throughout September, people are invited to take part in Dip or Dance events taking place all over the country to raise awareness for gynaecological 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/
[i] National Cancer Registry Ireland Annual Report 2023 Cancer in Ireland 1994 – 2021
[ii] Northern Ireland Cancer Registry www.qub.ac.uk/nicr 2017-2021