Women's cancers and health
In 2009, an estimated 12,050 women in Ontario are expected to be diagnosed with breast, cervical, ovarian or uterine cancer. In 2009, more than 3,250 women will die from them. These cancers are not discriminatory and have a devastating impact on women and those who love them.
The good news is that through donations and support from people like you, the Canadian Cancer Society is able to fund leading-edge cancer research that has led to new methods of early detection and advances in treatment.
This means women are surviving longer than ever before:
- The five-year survival rate for Ontario women diagnosed and treated for breast cancer is now 87%.
- Since 1977, the mortality rate from cervical cancer in Canada has dropped by about 60% and the incidence by about 50% due to the introduction of Pap tests.
- The five-year relative survival rate for women with uterine cancer in Canada is now 86%.
Fortunately, there are a few things that you can do to reduce your risk of cancer: don’t smoke, eat well, avoid second-hand smoke, be active, maintain a healthy body weight, drink less than one alcoholic drink a day, practice safe sex and participate in regular cervical and breast screening.
You know your own body best. If something doesn’t feel right or is different to how you normally feel or function, then visit your doctor and get it checked out.
Here are some links to more information about specific women’s cancers:
Health tips:
- YOU are the expert of your own body, so if you see or feel anything that is unusual for you, pay a quick visit to your doctor to give you peace of mind!
- Pap tests could save your life! If you are or have ever been sexually active, make sure you talk to your doctor about having regular Pap tests.
- Be breast aware! Know what is normal for your breasts and if you notice any changes, speak to your doctor. Starting at 50, make the commitment to get regular mammograms.
While there is no way you can guarantee that you won’t get cancer, there are steps you can take to lower your overall risk. For more information on how to live a cancer smart lifestyle, visit:
