NewsDetail
Doha, 21 May, 2017: This week, Hamad Medical Corporation’s (HMC) Women’s Wellness and Research Center (WWRC) welcomed patients to its gynecology-oncology clinic.
This follows the start of uro-gynaecology outpatient services at the WWRC on 7 May.
The WWRC Gynecology-Oncology clinics are dedicated to managing cancers of the female reproductive system, including cancer of the uterus, cancer of the ovaries and cervical cancer.
In addition, WWRC will offer a colposcopy clinic for the screening, diagnosis, treatment and education of women with abnormal Pap smear tests and other related pre-cancer disorders.
According to Dr. Jonathan Herod, Senior Consultant, Gynecological Surgeon and Oncologist at HMC, gynecological cancers are increasing in Qatar due to a larger number of women over the age of 60 with obesity and diabetes.
“Obesity, which is one of our most serious health issues in the country, causes an increase in estrogen production and chronic inflammation resulting in a greater risk of gynecological cancer,” said Dr. Herod. “This particularly applies to endometrial cancer (cancer of the womb), which is the most common gynecological cancer in Qatar.”
Dr. Herod added that the most important symptom women may experience as a warning sign is bleeding after menopause. Of women who experience this, approximately one in 12 is diagnosed with a gynecological cancer. Other symptoms that can serve as warning signs include spotting or bleeding between menstrual cycles, bleeding after intercourse, feeling swollen or bloated in the abdomen, a loss of appetite or feeling full quickly. Gas, indigestion or nausea, frequent urination, and pain or a mass in the pelvic area are also symptoms women should be watchful for.
“There is no way for women to definitively determine if they will get a gynecologic cancer. That’s why it is important for them to pay close attention to their body and to know what is normal for them. This way if a woman recognizes any of these warning signs or symptoms, she can immediately schedule an appointment with her primary health care center,” said Dr. Herod.
He also recommends that women be proactive about their health by maintaining a healthy diet and lifestyle to reduce obesity, scheduling regular visits with a doctor for Pap smear tests and checkups. Dr. Herod stated, “An early referral to our clinic allows our specialized team of gynecological oncology experts to prevent the cancer from spreading, and it allows us to work with a woman on a plan that ensures she gets the best care possible.”
When fully operational later this year, the WWRC will offer women a variety of gynecology clinics in the Outpatient Department to manage a wide range of female health issues. Equipped with dedicated operating theaters to conduct elective gynecology surgeries, the facility will also offer major surgery such as endoscopic, laparoscopic (keyhole) and robotic surgery, preventing women from having to travel abroad for their care.
