Take Charge of Your Health
Preventing Gynecologic Cancers Through Awareness and Screening
9/30/2024
Dr. Joelle Wennlund, Aspirus Gynecologist
The American Cancer
Society estimates that in 2024, approximately 13,820 new cases of invasive
cervical cancer will be diagnosed in the U.S. Despite these alarming numbers,
many women remain unaware of the steps they can take to prevent and detect
gynecologic cancers early.
During Gynecologic
Cancer Awareness Month, Aspirus Health is encouraging women to prioritize
prevention, stay informed, and take advantage of available screenings.
“Gynecologic cancers
affect the reproductive organs, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus,
cervix, vagina, and vulva,” explains Joelle Wennlund, MD, Gynecologist with
Aspirus Health. “Cervical, vaginal, and vulvar cancers are closely linked to the
HPV virus, making the HPV vaccine a powerful tool for prevention. While it’s
commonly given to younger women, the vaccine is approved for individuals up to
age 45 and may also be appropriate for some older women.”
Recognizing early
warning signs is vital for early detection of gynecologic cancers. Common
symptoms to watch for include pelvic pain, bloating, abnormal uterine bleeding,
and unusual discharge.
“For postmenopausal
women, any amount of vaginal bleeding, no matter how small, should be
evaluated,” advises Dr. Wennlund. “Even if it seems insignificant, it could be
a sign of something more serious.”
This is why routine
screenings play an important role in catching cancers early and preventing them
from developing. Wennlund emphasizes that “Pap tests and HPV screenings not
only detect cancer but can also identify precancerous changes. Treating these changes
early can help prevent cancer from developing.”
For patients in the
Northwoods, Aspirus offers the Loop Electrosurgical Excisional Procedure (LEEP)
to treat precancerous conditions locally, thanks to funding from the Howard
Young Foundation.
Aspirus Health
encourages women to take proactive steps toward their health by scheduling
routine screenings and staying alert to any changes in their bodies. Prevention
and early detection can make all the difference in outcomes.
Dr.
Wennlund sees patients at Aspirus Woodruff Clinic – Maple Street
(715.356.8718). To find a gynecologist in your area, visit https://www.aspirus.org/find-a-provider.
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