Gynecologic Cancers
Our team approach
The healthcare team at the St. Vincent’s Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care incorporates a multidisciplinary approach to treating gynecologic cancers.
Our multidisciplinary team of gynecologic oncologists, surgical oncologists, medical and radiation oncologists, gynecologic oncologists, radiologists and pathologists work closely with your primary care physician to coordinate your care and keep you safe.
Gynecologic cancers includes cancers of the:
- Cervix
- Fallopian Tubes
- Ovary
Facts about gynecologic cancer
Each gynecological cancer is unique with its own prevention strategies, symptoms and treatments. Every woman is at risk for gynecological cancer and the risk increases with age.
There are approximately 88,000 new gynecological cancers diagnosed annually in the United States. The most common site is the uterus with approximately 46,000 new cases annually, followed by ovary (22,000) and cervix (13,000). Cancer of the uterus is the fourth leading cause of cancer and the eighth leading cause of cancer death in women. Cancer of the ovary is the ninth leading cause of cancer and the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women.
Screening for cancer of the cervix with a Pap test is recommended beginning at age 21 and this has led to a significant decline in mortality from this cancer.
Risk factors
Family history of breast or ovarian cancer is an important risk factor for ovarian cancer. Women with a personal history of breast cancer or who test positive for genetic mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are also at increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Lynch syndrome, also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer (HNPCC), is an inherited disorder that is also associated with ovarian and uterine cancer. Genetic testing for these mutations is available at St. Vincent’s Medical Center.
The other major risk factors for uterine cancer include obesity, diabetes mellitus and increased estrogen exposure. Tamoxifen is a hormone often used in breast cancer treatment that increases the risk of uterine cancer.
Treating gynecologic cancers at St. Vincent's
Our comprehensive care approach to treating patients with gynecologic cancer addresses the medical as well as the psychological needs of cancer patients and their families. From diagnosis to treatment to support and survivorship, our team, composed of physicians, surgeons, radiation and medical oncologists, technicians, nurses and support staff, work collaboratively to determine individualized treatment options leading to the most optimal results for the patient.
Treament plans designed exclusively for you
A combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy is commonly used to treat gynecologic cancers. Each patient’s individual needs are assessed by our multidisciplinary team of cancer specialists to determine which combination of treatment options is most appropriate.
The gynecologic oncology program of St. Vincent’s is aligned with the gynecologic oncology service at Yale University School of Medicine. Cases are presented at a monthly gynecologic oncology specific Tumor Conferences attended by physicians and staff from different disciplines ensuring the most thorough assessment of each case.
Thomas Rutherford, MD, PhD, Professor of Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Services and Section Chief of Gynecologic Oncology at Yale University, has medical staff privileges at St. Vincent’s and oversees the gynecologic oncology treatment team.
At St. Vincent’s, patients are assessed on an individualized basis for specialized tests and treatments including genetic testing and counseling, minimally invasive and robotic surgery. St. Vincent’s Medical Center participates in clinical trials in gynecologic oncology through the Gynecologic Oncology Group (GOG) which is a non-profit organization with the purpose of promoting excellence in the quality and integrity of clinical and basic science research in the field of gynecologic malignancies. Eligible patients will be screened for inclusion in clinical trials.
A guiding hand - when you need one
The gynecologic oncology nurse navigator at St. Vincent’s Medical Center is there to help guide patients through the diagnosis, treatment and survivorship of gynecologic cancer.
You will always be treated with compassion and with the philosophy of treating the whole person – mind, body and spirit – not just the cancer. Compassionate care is our mission.
The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care
The Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care is accredited with commendation by the Commission on Cancer of the American College of Surgeons.
Criteria for accreditation include a relationship with the American Cancer Society (ACS) and a representative from the ACS is a member of our Hospital Committee on Cancer.
Click in for additional information about specific cancers listed by ACS, and call the Elizabeth M. Pfriem SWIM Center for Cancer Care's referral line: 1-877-231-SWIM (7946) for more informaton.
Contact us
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To speak with a St. Vincent's Care Line representative, call (877) 255-7847
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