From left: Joshua G. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., F.A.C.S., Seth A. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S.
While overall rates of cervical cancer are decreasing, new studies have shown that late-stage cervical cancer rates are increasing in the U.S., particularly in women 30 to 34 years of age and in diverse demographics. The cause is unknown, but missed screenings could be a factor, experts say.
“Cervical cancer is the fourth most prevalent cancer in women worldwide and more than 14,000 Americans develop cervical cancer each year,” said Joshua G. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.O.G., F.A.C.S., medical director of the Gynecologic Cancer Program at City of Hope Orange County. “If caught early, it is highly treatable. These alarming trends in late-stage rates of cervical cancer point to the importance of screening and of seeking highly specialized care if diagnosed with a gynecologic cancer, such as cervical cancer,” said Cohen.
City of Hope has developed Orange County’s most advanced and comprehensive program for gynecologic oncology and urogynecologic care. The program offers a broad range of expertise in cancer treatment, complex noncancerous gynecologic disorders, urogynecology and pelvic floor dysfunction. Patients have access to the latest in “previvorship” prevention, diagnosis, treatment, innovative Phase 1-3 clinical trials and survivorship care — all providing the greatest hope for recovery and quality of life.
“January is Cervical Cancer Awareness Month, an ideal time to educate our community about the steps that can be taken to prevent cervical cancer and the depth and breadth of expertise available if you or someone you love is diagnosed with this disease,” Cohen said.
Vaccination and screening are key
Most cervical cancers are caused by infection with the human papillomavirus (HPV); about 75-80% of sexually active adults will acquire HPV before the age of 50. The HPV vaccination, which can be given to children as young as 9, will prevent 80-90% of cervical cancers, Cohen says.
Most children receive their HPV vaccinations at ages 11 to 12. They receive two doses, given six to 12 months apart.
“If you’re the mother of a preteen, get your child vaccinated for HPV, and talk to your doctor about Pap or HPV testing for yourself,” Cohen says.
Many women do not have symptoms of cervical cancer, and a health care provider may first see signs of cancer during a pelvic exam or a Pap test. However, there are symptoms women should be aware of and should voice to their doctor, such as abnormal vaginal discharge, abnormal vaginal bleeding, or new pelvic pain or pressure. Women over the age of 21 should get regular Pap smear and HPV tests.
“We know that by the time women receive their care at an institution like City of Hope Orange County, all too often they are presenting with more advanced stages of this disease,” said Cohen. “The key here is prevention and early intervention. It is essential for women to know the signs and symptoms of cervical cancer, the importance of screening and the difference in seeking care from a specialist if symptoms occur.”
At City of Hope Orange County, a multidisciplinary team pursues an integrated approach to treating cervical cancer by combining the latest research findings with specialized patient care. Patients have access to the most advanced specialized care in fertility preservation, management of chronic HPV infection and survivorship. Cohen encourages patients with persistent abnormal pap smears or chronic HPV infection, new symptoms (such as irregular bleeding) or a history of cervical cancer to pursue care at City of Hope Orange County.
“We are here to help and improve access to patients at increased risk of gynecologic cancer, as well as those who may have gynecologic cancer or other pelvic floor conditions,” said Cohen. “We work with urgency because time matters. Our goal is to get patients in quickly to provide a high level of care with an individualized treatment plan.”
Urogynecologic expertise can help manage side effects
Cohen works alongside his brother, Seth A. Cohen, M.D., F.A.C.S. a urologic surgeon, urogynecologist and director of the Cancer Survivorship and Reconstructive Urology Fellowship Program at City of Hope.
Seth Cohen works to improve quality of life for patients with pelvic floor conditions. He manages the side effects related to gynecologic cancers and cancer treatments, such as pelvic organ prolapse and urinary incontinence. “At City of Hope, we believe in treating the whole person for optimal care and that means through long-term survivorship,” he says. “Cervical cancer is a disease that can be managed with the right interventions, and the solution is patient education and empowerment from diagnosis to long-term survivorship for our patients.”
City of Hope Orange County offers renowned gynecologic oncology and urogynecologic care through City of Hope Orange County Lennar Foundation Cancer Center — the region’s most advanced comprehensive cancer center — and our four-location Orange County regional cancer care network — two in Newport Beach, one in Huntington Beach and one in Irvine.
To make an appointment at any of our five Orange County locations, call 888-333-HOPE (4673).