What is Vaginal Cancer?
Vaginal cancer is a rare type of cancer that occurs in the vaginal tissue. The vagina, also known as the birth canal, is the muscular tube that connects the cervix (the lower part of the uterus) to the external part of the genitalia. Here is a brief overview of vaginal cancer:
Types of Vaginal Cancer
- Squamous Cell Carcinoma: This is the most common type of vaginal cancer, which begins in the thin, flat cells lining the vagina.
- Adenocarcinoma: This type starts in the glandular cells of the vagina. It is less common than squamous cell carcinoma but tends to occur in older women.
- Melanoma: This rare type originates in the pigment-producing cells (melanocytes) of the vagina.
- Sarcoma: This rare type starts in the connective tissue or muscles of the vaginal wall.
Risk Factors
Several risk factors can increase the likelihood of developing vaginal cancer. These risk factors include:
- Human Papillomavirus (HPV) Infection: Persistent infection with certain strains of HPV, particularly HPV 16 and HPV 18, is a major risk factor for vaginal cancer.
- Age: The risk of vaginal cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over 60.
- History of Cervical Cancer: Women who have had cervical cancer or precancerous conditions of the cervix are at increased risk for developing vaginal cancer.
- DES Exposure: Women whose mothers took diethylstilbestrol (DES) during pregnancy to prevent miscarriage have a higher risk of developing a rare type of vaginal cancer called clear cell adenocarcinoma.
- Vaginal Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VAIN): Precancerous changes in the cells lining the vagina can increase the risk of developing vaginal cancer.
- Smoking: Smoking is associated with an increased risk of many cancers, including vaginal cancer.
- Weakened Immune System: Conditions or treatments that weaken the immune system, such as HIV/AIDS or long-term use of immunosuppressive drugs, can increase the risk of vaginal cancer.
- Chronic Vaginal Irritation: Long-term irritation or inflammation of the vaginal lining can be a risk factor.
- Multiple Sexual Partners: Having multiple sexual partners increases the risk of HPV infection, which is a significant risk factor for vaginal cancer.
- Sexually Transmitted Infections (STIs): In addition to HPV, other STIs can contribute to the development of vaginal cancer.
- Previous Radiation Therapy: Women who have received radiation therapy to the pelvis for other cancers may have an increased risk of developing vaginal cancer.
It's important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not mean that a person will develop vaginal cancer. By prioritizing regular check-ups and prompt medical attention, the GW Cancer Center Gynecological Oncology team can significantly improve the prognosis and survival of vaginal cancer.