Cancer is a life changing disease, and while cancer in itself can induce anxiety in many, there are rare cancers, which may further escalate that fear. Rare cancers are types of cancers with low annual incidence, and are generally defined as fewer than 6 cases per 100,000 people. While it is infrequent, over 200 types of rare cancers are still represented by a significant portion of all cancer cases and deaths, presenting unique challenges for prevention, diagnosis, and treatment due to the scarcity of research as well as expertise. Among the rare cancer, is a category, often referred to as 'silent diseases', because many of the early symptoms are often dismissed. These are gynecological cancers. According to the American Cancer Society, more females are diagnosed with gynecologic cancer in 2024 than colon cancer.Also Read: If You're Alone At Home And Experience A Heart Attack, Here's How You Survive: According To Doctor Rare Gynecologic Cancers That ExistsRare gynecological cancers include primary fallopian tube cancer, primary peritoneal cancer (similar to ovarian cancer), gestational trophoblastic disease (GTD), and specific subtypes of more common cancers like clear cell ovarian carcinoma or certain cervical cancers. These cancers, which originate from parts of female reproductive system or associated tissues, are distinct from the more common types and thus require specialized diagnosis and treatment. Fallopian tube cancer: It starts in the tubes connecting the ovaries and uterus. It makes up to 1 to 2% of gynecologic cancer, and less than 1% of all reproductive organ cancer with 1,500 to 2,000 cases reported worldwide, and of them 300 to 400 are annually diagnosed in the US. Gestational trophoblastic disease: It forms in the layer of cells that encloses an embryo in pregnant women. It affects about 1 in 1,000 pregnancies in the US. Primary peritoneal cancer: Forms within the tissue that lines a woman's abdominal and reproductive organs. It affects fewer than 7 cases per 1 million people annually. Researchers also suggest that of the 15% women diagnosed with advanced ovarian cancer may have primary peritoneal cancer. It also effects women over the age of 60. Uterine sarcoma: Begins in the muscles or soft tissues of the uterus. They are rare, and represent about 1% of all female genital tract malignancies and 3 to 7% of uterine cancers. Vaginal Cancer: Starts in the vagina and spreads to the external genitals. It is mostly common among women at their older age, especially around 69 years old. It makes up to 1 to 2% of gynecologic cancer.Vulvar Cancer: Affects the outer part of the female genitals. There is a 1 in 333 chance of being diagnosed with vulvar cancer, but makes up to 6% of new gynecologic case. What Are The Common Symptoms Of Gynecologic Cancer?It can be detected early with regular pelvic exams and Pap tests.Read: What To Expect From A Pap Smear Test? The common symptoms to note for so you can see your doctor are:Unusual bleeding or dischargeSores, lumps, or growthsPersistent itching or burningTenderness or pain, especially during sex or urinationChanges in skin colorConstipation or other changes to bowel movements and urinationSwollen abdomenHow Can It Be Diagnosed?A pelvic Examination is one of the ways to diagnose it. This is when the doctor looks at the inside of the vagina and cervix. Pressing ovaries and uterus to check for abnormalities is also part of this examination.During a pap test, the doctor collects cells from the cervix and looks at it under a microscope. In colposcopy, a magnifying device called a colposcope is used to spot suspicious tissue. In a biopsy, a small tissue sample is extracted for analysis under a microscope and a doctor will look for cancer cells. Lastly, MRI or CT scans and ultrasounds can be used as imaging techniques to locate tumors and see if cancer has spread.
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