Q: I don’t have a family history of gynecologic cancer, so I’m OK, right?
A: Not necessarily. Most women with gynecologic cancer don’t have a family history. Cervical, vulvar, and vaginal cancers are often linked to HPV, a common sexually transmitted infection. Ovarian, fallopian tube, and endometrial cancers can be hereditary, so if you have close relatives with cancer, talk to your doctor about genetic testing.
Q: If I get annual exams, don’t smoke, and live healthy, am I still at risk?
A: Yes. Healthy habits help lower your risk, but they can’t eliminate it completely. PAP tests only screen for cervical cancer—they don’t detect ovarian, fallopian tube, or endometrial cancers. Many women diagnosed with these cancers have no obvious risk factors. Always see your doctor if you notice ongoing or unexplained symptoms.
Q: I have been diagnosed with endometrial cancer. What do I do now?
A: It’s important to see a gynecologic oncologist, who has specialized training to treat reproductive cancers. They use the latest techniques, like minimally invasive surgery and sentinel lymph node biopsy, which can lower complications. Studies show patients treated by specialists have better survival rates.
Q: Are all endometrial cancers the same?
A: No. Most cases are low-risk and estrogen-related, but some types—like serous, clear cell, and sarcomas—are more aggressive. Molecular testing now helps personalize treatment plans and predict outcomes. Alarmingly, both new cases and deaths from endometrial cancer are rising, with Black and Hispanic women facing higher mortality rates.
Q: Is there hope for advanced ovarian cancer
A: Yes. Although most ovarian cancers are found at later stages, standard treatment—surgery, chemotherapy, and maintenance therapy—can be highly effective. Some patients, especially those with specific genetic mutations, may even be cured. Genetic and molecular testing at diagnosis help guide treatment.
Q: What’s new for cervical cancer?
A: Rates have declined thanks to vaccination and screening, but risk remains. Early-stage disease may allow fertility-sparing or minimally invasive surgery. Advanced cervical cancer now benefits from immunotherapy and Antibody Drug Conjugates, significantly improving survival.
Q: Are there new treatments for recurrent or metastatic disease?
A: Yes. New FDA-approved immunotherapies and Antibody Drug Conjugates target cancer cells more precisely, reducing side effects. Some therapies are matched to unique biomarkers. There are even new oral drugs for rare cancers like low-grade serous ovarian cancer.
Q: Are clinical trials available in Fort Worth?
A: Yes. Clinical trials offer access to promising treatments tailored to each patient’s cancer profile. They rarely use placebos alone; most compare new therapies to standard care. Texas Oncology locations in Fort Worth currently have 16 trials open for ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers, offering hope and progress for patients today and tomorrow.
Noelle Gillette Cloven, M.D.
Board-Certified Gynecologic Oncologist
Texas Oncology, Fort Worth Cancer Center
500 South Henderson
Ste. 300, Fort Worth 76104
817.413.1500
texasoncology.com
