Introduction
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is a time to shed light on the often-silent diseases that affect thousands of women worldwide. It's also a time to recognize the tireless efforts of medical professionals and researchers dedicated to improving outcomes for cancer patients. The recent proclamation from Governor Kemp of Georgia declaring September Gynecological Cancer Awareness Month is yet another recognition of the importance of increased awareness about gynecologic cancer and the continued efforts by healthcare institutions to advance knowledge about the causes of these cancers as well as how to both prevent and provide the most effective cutting edge clinical care to patients.
Emory Gynecology and Obstetrics Department stands out as a division where groundbreaking research is taking place under the leadership of Dr. Susan Modesitt. Dr. Modesitt joined Emory's faculty as Gynecologic Oncology Division Director in 2022 and has been instrumental in expanding the department's portfolio of gynecologic cancer clinical trials to eventually ensure that every gynecologic cancer patient treated at Emory will have access to a clinical trial with innovative treatments.
Dr. Modesitt has made clinical trials a cornerstone of her academic career for the past two decades and believes that "today's clinical trials are tomorrow's standard of care,” stated Dr. Modesitt.
Understanding the Ovarian Cancer Challenge
Ovarian cancer, one of the most recognized gynecologic cancers, is often called the "silent killer" because its symptoms are often vague and easily dismissed. This insidious disease affects thousands of women each year. The American Cancer Society estimates for ovarian cancer in the United States in 2023 about 19,710 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer. While these numbers are compelling, there is much to be positive about as it relates to progress made.
Ovarian cancer incidence rates have shown a promising decline of 1-2% per year from 1990-2010, with a notable accelerated decline to 3% per year from 2015-2019. Mortality trends follow a similar positive trajectory. Several factors contribute to this decline. Firstly, a recognition that hereditary factors account for 20-24% of ovarian cancer cases has led to increased genetic testing, helping identify high-risk families and enabling highly effective risk-reduction surgeries for at-risk women.
Secondly, a rise in oral contraceptive use has led to a 50% decrease in ovarian cancer incidence among both high-risk and normal-risk women. Lastly, it's been discovered that a significant portion of serous epithelial ovarian cancers originate in the fallopian tube, making opportunistic salpingectomy (tubal removal) a preventive measure during surgeries for women not seeking future fertility, including tubal ligation, hysterectomy, and even non-gynecologic surgeries (in the future). These factors collectively contribute to the encouraging decline in ovarian cancer rates.
The Emory Gynecologic Oncology Division's Commitment
The Emory Gynecologic Oncology Division specializes in the treatment of gynecological cancer. Committed to improving patient outcomes and advancing medical science, this division has made significant strides in advancing both research and treatment. Cancer research is critical to improving treatment outcomes for patients. In the pursuit of understanding the underlying causes of cancer and developing new treatments, this work not only benefits individual patients but also helps advance medical science and improve healthcare for everyone.
The division's primary focus areas include:
- Clinical Trials: Dr. Susan Modesitt, a prominent figure in gynecologic oncology, has been a driving force behind Emory's expansion of gynecologic cancer clinical trials underscoring her dedication to finding innovative solutions for ovarian cancer patients.
- Innovative Therapies: Emory's research endeavors extend to exploring cutting-edge therapies for both treatment and prevention of gynecologic cancers. Through their clinical trials, they are not only improving current treatment options but also pioneering novel approaches that hold promise for the future.
- Patient-Centered Care: The Emory Gynecologic Oncology Division is committed to providing personalized, patient-centered care. They understand that each patient's journey is unique and work diligently to tailor treatments to individual needs.
- Cancer prevention: The best way to cure cancer is to prevent it when possible; this can be done by identifying high-risk women who might benefit from more intensive cancer screening or drugs that decrease cancer risk or even risk-reducing surgery.
Conclusion
Gynecologic Cancer Awareness Month is a poignant reminder of the ongoing battle against these formidable diseases. However, it's also a time to celebrate the progress made in decreasing the burden of ovarian cancer by entities like the Emory Gynecologic Oncology Division, where dedicated professionals lead the charge. With a focus on clinical trials, innovative therapies, cancer prevention, and patient-centered care, Emory's commitment to research gives hope to patients and their families. As we look to the future, through continued dedication and groundbreaking research, we can improve outcomes for those affected by cancer.