Obstetrics & Gynecology CancerCARE News Archive Featured in the Media JeffNEWS

For some women, the gynecologist is their primary physician. For others, it is the complete opposite; they rarely ever get a routine Pap test, the quick, simple and painless procedure that has proven to be a lifesaver.

As we learn more and more about the importance of early detection, the physicians at the Center for Gynecologic Oncology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital recommend that every woman age 21 or over, or those who may be younger but are sexually active, have an annual appointment with a gynecologist that should include a Pap test to help identify abnormal--and sometimes pre-cancerous--cells.

"A routine gynecologic visit is a good rule of thumb for someone who feels fine and has no visible symptoms," says Norman G. Rosenblum, M.D., Ph.D., director, Division of Gynecologic Oncology, in the Department of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Thomas Jefferson University Hospital.

“In addition to a Pap test,” he says, “the gynecologist will perform a pelvic exam during a routine visit to further check for gynecologic cancers in the early stage.

“Of course, if a woman of any age experiences what she would consider unusual—for example: abnormal bleeding, bleeding after intercourse, changes in bowel or bladder patterns, or abdominal or pelvic pressure—she should have it evaluated by a general gynecologist quickly,” says Dr. Rosenblum, who is also clinical assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University.

“All women should be aware, though, that many gynecologic cancers are not diagnosed until they are at an advanced stage,” says gynecologic oncologist David Silver, M.D. “This is why, in addition to noting unusual changes, all women should get to know their family history.

“Learn about your family histories of cancer, including breast, ovarian, uterine, colon and prostate cancers. Since the genetic risk for ovarian cancer can be transmitted through either the mother or the father, understanding general cancer risk is equally important as understanding a genetic history of one disease. Also, be sure to share your family history of cancer with your gynecologist,” says Dr. Silver, who is also assistant professor of Obstetrics and Gynecology at Jefferson Medical College of Thomas Jefferson University.

Should a gynecologic cancer be found, there is good news on the treatment front, both physicians explain. “For example, endometrial cancer is usually found at an early stage and is likely to be cured,” Dr. Rosenblum says.

If the cancer is found at a later stage and surgery is recommended, Dr. Silver says, “we are very concerned with our patient’s quality of life. We balance her quality of life with appropriate treatment.”

For information, or to make an appointment with a gynecologic oncologist at Jefferson, call 1-800-JEFF-NOW.