A gynecologist oncologist is one who specializes in the treatment of cancer in female reproductive system. The female reproductive organs include ovary, endometrium, vagina, cervix, vulva and uterus. To become a gynecologist oncologist, one has to undergo 4-year residency program in obstetrics and gynecology followed by 3-year clinical fellowship in gynecological oncology. There are many training programs offered by universities, which provides necessary skills needed and optimal care for females suffering from cancer. During the training period the future oncologist is enlightened on surgeries and administration of chemotherapy. After completion of the fellowship one may practice specialty of his interest.
One of the common malignancies that a gynecologist oncologist treats is the endometrial cancer. It occurs due to the abnormal cell division in the lining of the uterus and due to an increased level of estrogen. It develops after menopause. Though the cause of this disease is not known, there are many methods to cure this disease when detected at an early stage. The symptoms of endometrial cancer are bleeding after menopause, pain during sexual intercourse, weight loss and abnormal discharge from the vagina.
Risk factors of endometrial cancer are irregular ovulation, high fat diet, obesity, and puberty at an early age, ovarian tumors and diabetes. The oncologists advise every patient for a check up if these risk factors prevail. A gynecologist oncologist will suggest a series of test like the pap test, endometrial biopsy and transvaginal ultrasound which will show the presence of cancerous cells.
The only treatment for endometrial cancer is surgery. Through the surgery the oncologist will determine if the cells have metastasized to other organs. Doing regular exercise, using birth control pills, and maintaining the BMI can prevent endometrial cancer. A gynecologist oncologist conducts awareness programs across the city to educate the people and to diagonise the disease at an early stage for complete cure.
