While the majority of forms of cancer can affect anyone of any gender, a great deal of research has shown that women may be more susceptible to certain kinds of cancer than men are. Likewise, men are more likely to get some types of cancer than women. While cancer is rarely, if ever, gender-specific, it’s essential to know which cancers are more likely, to effectively check for and diagnose cancer as early as possible.

For women, the most common forms of cancer include:

Breast Cancer

Probably the most commonly-known cancer when it comes to women, over 240,000 cases of breast cancer are diagnosed on average each year in the US. As the name suggests, this cancer is found within the breast tissue. It is also possible for men to get breast cancer, but far less common. According to the American Cancer Society, the following is recommended to help catch breast cancer early before it metastasizes or develops:

• Annual mammograms from the age of 40 to 54 for individuals at average risk levels
• Mammograms every two years for women over the age of 55
• Regular self-checking for lumps or changes in the breasts for women of all ages

By taking these measures, the survival chances of breast cancer can increase. However, it’s important to note that certain factors can lead to an increased risk of breast cancer specifically, which should be carefully monitored by a doctor. In some cases, preventative measures may be suggested to reduce the risk of cancer. These factors include:

• BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, an inherited form of genetic abnormality
• A history of any form of breast cancer within the family
• Specific conditions in the breast, such as denser breast tissue, which may increase risk

Breast cancer is the single most well-known and common cancer that occurs to women, and as such regular checks and monitoring are recommended, as well as screening as and when required.

Lung Cancer

While lung cancer does not specifically target women, it is still one of the leading causes of death from cancer across both genders. As is commonly known, the leading cause of lung cancer is smoking, but this is not the sole cause for this form of cancer, and symptoms or issues with the lungs should be taken just as seriously in non-smoking patients. For anyone with a history of smoking for more than 30 years, it’s recommended that regular screenings are undergone to catch lung cancer early, as the risk of developing this condition is significantly increased in those cases.

In regards to non-smokers, lung cancer remains high on the list for women and is the sixth most deadly cancer in the US for non-smokers. It’s essential to visit a doctor if you experience severe symptoms such as a cough that won’t go away, difficulty breathing, or discomfort in the chest. Early screening offers the best chance of survival.

Colorectal Cancer

This serious cancer may be the third most common amongst women across the board, but it’s also the second-highest known cancer for Hispanic women in particular. Factors that increase the risk for this specific cancer include a red meat-heavy diet, age, and IBD and similar inflammatory bowel conditions. However, it’s worth noting that screening for this form of cancer is highly effective, and this cancer can be very treatable if it is caught early enough. To ensure early cancer treatment, the following is recommended:

• Screening for individuals with IBD and history of colorectal cancer from the age of 18 upwards
• Screening for individuals with polyps or of a higher risk due to diet from the age of 40
• Annual screening for everyone aged 50 and over

Colorectal cancer is highly treatable if found on time, which makes early discovery incredibly vital, and consistent screenings even more important.

Uterine and Endometrial Cancer

This cancer is specific to women only, and those over the age of 55 are mainly at risk from uterine and endometrial cancers. There are many risk factors for this cancer, including obesity, diabetes, certain hormones, and even tamoxifen when taken as a treatment for breast cancer. Woman with Lynch syndrome as also at a higher risk. As with all cancers, regular screening is the number one way to ensure this cancer is found early.

Symptoms of uterine and endometrial cancer to watch out for include discharge and bleeding unrelated to menstruation, as well as painful urination and pelvic pain. If you are currently experiencing any of these symptoms, speaking to a doctor as soon as possible is recommended.

While some cancers are more common than others, we must regularly check for cancers we are specifically at risk of. A medical professional will be able to advise you on your personal health areas of higher likelihood, allowing you to monitor possible symptoms and concerns better.