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Each year, approximately 100,000 women in the U.S. are diagnosed with gynecologic cancers, which target the female reproductive system, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, cervix, vulva, and vagina. Despite affecting all races, Black and Hispanic women often face worse outcomes, with higher mortality rates and later-stage diagnoses.
"Unfortunately, we see elevated mortality rates in Black and Hispanic women with gynecologic cancers," says Kristina Butler, M.D., a Mayo Clinic Comprehensive Cancer Center gynecologic oncologist.
These differences stem from various factors, including socioeconomic barriers, healthcare access, and comorbidities such as obesity, diabetes, and hypertension. Additionally, transportation and finding a trusted healthcare provider often challenge minority women.
To improve outcomes, Dr. Butler emphasizes prevention and early detection:
- HPV vaccination
- Regular pelvic exams and Pap tests
- Awareness of symptoms, including vaginal bleeding, abnormal discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, and vulvar discomfort.
"Early detection through screening is tremendously important as it improves long-term outcomes," Dr. Butler explains.
Find a gynecologic clinical trial at Mayo Clinic.
A version of this article was originally published on the Mayo Clinic News Network.
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