Women's conference raises awareness of vulval cancer
28 February 2001
Delegates at the 4th Australian Women’s Health Conference, held this year in Adelaide, have been told of the impact of reproductive cancers, in particular, vulval cancer.
In one of the papers given during the session, Vulval cancer: let’s look at it, the NSW Cancer Council’s Dr Kendra Sundquist said that although cancer of the vulva is not a common reproductive cancer, lack of both public and professional awareness ensures that it remains largely invisible, shrouded with embarrassment and shame.
The problem, she said, is that the vulva is an area of a woman’s body that is relatively hidden and not often discussed in general conversation. For many women, she said, self inspection is not a desired option.
She went on to say that factors associated with the development and progression of vulval cancer are human papilloma virus (the virus that causes genital warts) and smoking.
According to Dr Sundquist, women and their doctors need to be aware that if they experience symptoms such as persistent vulval itching, ulceration that fails to respond to treatment, or visible abnormalities (e.g. a lump), then women should be referred to a gynaecologist. If cancer is diagnosed, they should then see a specialist gynaecologist.
Also presenting a paper at the session was Kath Mazzella, the founder of the Gynaecological Awareness Information Network (GAIN). Previously diagnosed with vulval cancer, Kath underwent a radical vulvectomy. This surgery involved the removal of her clitoris, labia and lymph nodes. At the time there was little support and information available to her and the traumatic experience was very isolating.
Seeking out other women who had had vulval cancer, she placed an advertisement in a women’s magazine and received 30 replies. A short time later, she formed GAIN with the support of other women who had endured the trauma of being diagnosed and treated for gynaecological disorders.
Kath’s aim, through GAIN, is to increase public knowledge of issues such as gynaecological cancers (vulval, uterine, cervical and ovarian), endometriosis, sexually transmitted diseases (STDs), infertility and sexuality.
If you or someone you know would like more information on GAIN, contact (08) 9228 4488 or Freecall 1800 195 575.
Last Reviewed: 02 March 2001
