Kolkata, September 2025: Thousands of women across India are diagnosed each year with gynecologic cancers, including cervical, ovarian, and uterine cancers. While the numbers may appear alarming, experts stress that these diseases are largely preventable and highly treatable when detected early. On the occasion of Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month, Dr. Upasana Palo, Consultant – Gynecologic Oncology & Robotic Surgery at Narayana RN Tagore Hospital, Mukundapur, highlighted the life-saving importance of awareness, prevention, and timely intervention.
“Small preventive steps, taken on time, can save lives,” Dr. Palo emphasised, pointing to cervical cancer as one of the few cancers that can be prevented through vaccination and regular screening. The HPV vaccine, Pap smears, and HPV DNA testing provide proven protection. She further advised maintaining a healthy weight, avoiding tobacco, and managing conditions like diabetes and hypertension to reduce cancer risk.
A major challenge, however, remains women’s tendency to prioritise their families over their own health. Dr. Palo cautioned against ignoring warning signs such as unusual vaginal bleeding, bloating, pelvic pain, changes in urinary or bowel habits, and unexplained weight loss. “Early detection is not about fear; it is about giving women the power to live long, healthy, and fulfilling lives,” she said.
In eastern India, cervical and ovarian cancers are the most prevalent. Cervical cancer is still often diagnosed late due to limited screening access, while ovarian cancer remains difficult to detect because of vague symptoms. Endometrial cancer, linked to rising obesity and diabetes rates, is emerging as another concern, though it remains highly curable when caught early.
Dr. Palo also urged women to discard common myths: gynecologic cancers can affect women of any age; Pap smears only detect cervical cancer, not all gynecologic cancers; and a cancer diagnosis does not mean life ends. “With modern treatments, many women today recover fully and go on to live long, fulfilling lives,” she added.
The treatment landscape has advanced rapidly, with robotic surgery allowing minimally invasive procedures that reduce pain and recovery time. Targeted therapies, immunotherapies, and genetic testing are further transforming care, enabling personalised treatment and offering protection for women with inherited risks.
“Early detection remains the single most powerful tool in this fight,” Dr. Palo concluded. “Cervical cancer is preventable, endometrial cancer is curable if diagnosed early, and persistent symptoms must never be ignored.”
Her message to Indian women is clear: by prioritising preventive care, regular screenings, and timely treatment, they can protect themselves and inspire their families and communities to embrace healthier, life-saving practices.
