The Women’s Risk
Gynaecological Cancers
Just like men with Lynch syndrome, women have an increased chance of developing cancer in their lifetime. It is important that women are also aware that in addition, they face a greater risk of developing certain gynaecological cancers.
These cancers include; endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer. Endometrial cancer refers to cancer that originates in the lining of the uterus. It is therefore very important that women with Lynch syndrome are aware of their family’s history of these particular cancers.
Know your family’s history of cancer, including gynaecological cancers
Risk Reducing Surgery
Your doctor should be consulted with to discuss your chance of developing these cancers. It is important to also discuss options for prevention and signs and symptoms of any potential problems.
As with all Lynch syndrome cancers, the earlier you act, the better. At present, there is little evidence to support the use of routine surveillance to test for these cancers in women with Lynch syndrome. As such, it is recommended that women consider having what is called “risk-reducing surgery” (also known as prophylactic surgery) after they have finished having children. This surgery removes the uterus, ovaries, Fallopian tubes and cervix to dramatically reduce a women’s chance of developing these gynaecological cancers. It is important to discuss this with your doctor or a gynaecological oncologist if you are concerned about your risk of developing these cancers. The procedure is major surgery and carries not only the immediate risks arising from surgery but also the many long-term consequences for physical and psychological health and well-being of a surgically induced menopause.
