Ask The Provider: James Izzano, MD

Q: As a woman, are there certain cancers that should be of special concern to me?

A: There are five cancers that affect women:

• Endometrial
• Ovarian
• Vulvar
• Vaginal
• Cervical

Only one, cervical cancer, has a screening test.  The rest are diagnosed when symptoms develop. So, it’s important to keep in mind that the earlier a cancer is detected, the better the chances that the disease can be treated, increasing the chances of survival. Annual gynecological examsprovide an opportunity to collect pap smears if needed, perform an exam, ask specific questions about new changes, and discuss family risk. Certain symptoms shouldn’t wait for an annual exam.

Postmenopausal bleeding should always be reported, as this is the earliest sign of endometrial cancer. I urge all women to get their recommended pap smears, go for annual exams, and discuss
any changes to their body in a timely manner. Prevention begins with awareness.

Dr. Izzano sees patients in Amsterdam and Johnstown. Call (518) 842-0373 to schedule an appointment today.