Spotlight on GYNAE CANCERS

Being aware of the signs to look out for could save your life...

- KAREN EVENNETT

We all know how vital cervical screening is. Across the UK, it saves some 5,000 lives a year. But your so-called 'smear test' should be just one thing on your to-do list. With 60 gynaecological cancers diagnosed daily - a third of them turning out to be fatal - a good understanding of your body could be your lifesaver. Our experts explain everything...

Womb

Of the 22,000-plus gynae cancers diagnosed in the UK every year, nearly 10,000 will be cancer of the womb. It's the most common gynae cancer, and the fourth most common of all cancers affecting women. 'It's most usual after menopause, but it can affect younger women too,' says nurse Helen Hyndman MBE from The Eve Appeal. 'Suddenly bleeding after menopause - even a pink, blood-stained or brownish discharge - is a red flag that needs to be checked out.

If you're still menstruating, be concerned about mid-cycle or postcoital bleeding or periods that are suddenly unexpectedly heavy.'

Need to know: One in 30 womb cancers is linked to being overweight. Body fat (especially abdominal fat) becomes an oestrogen factory after the menopause. The more fat you have, the more oestrogen your body produces, and it's this excess that can increase your risk of cancer.

Ovarian