Any woman can get vulvar cancer. However, certain women are at a higher risk of developing this cancer than others. The possible reason could be their exposure to certain factors that increase the risk of vulvar cancer. These factors, referred to as risk factors, may be modifiable or non-modifiable.
Modifying these risk factors involves identifying and adopting specific vulvar cancer prevention measures, which help reduce the risk of this cancer type significantly.
Vulvar Cancer Risk Factors
Age
Increasing age is a notable risk factor for vulvar cancer, with the majority of cases diagnosed in postmenopausal women. The possible reason for this could be cumulative exposure to various vulvar cancer risk factors over time. While vulvar cancer can occur at any age, its risk increases with age.
Human Papillomavirus (HPV)
Infection with certain strains of HPV, particularly types 16 and 18, is one of the most significant vulvar cancer risk factors. Practicing safe sex, getting vaccinated, and opting for regular screenings contribute to HPV prevention and early detection of vulvar cancer.
Smoking
Tobacco smoking is also considered one of the most important vulvar cancer risk factors. The carcinogens in tobacco may contribute to a weakened immune system and eventually contribute to the development of malignancies in the vulvar region.
HIV Infection
HIV infection is also one of the most important vulvar cancer risk factors. The compromised immune system associated with HIV can contribute to a higher likelihood of persistent HPV infection, which is a risk factor for vulvar cancer.
Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN)
VIN refers to the precancerous changes in the vulvar skin, which may lead to vulvar cancer if left untreated. In most cases, VIN does not cause any symptoms. However, some women with VIN can experience itching, rashes, burning and tingling, and pain and discomfort during sexual intercourse. It may also cause changes in the appearance and texture of the vulvar skin. Since VIN is one of the most important vulvar cancer risk factors, one must pay attention to their vulvar health and consult a doctor when something is not normal.
Lichen Sclerosus
Certain inflammatory skin conditions can also increase the risk of vulvar cancer. Lichen sclerosus, a chronic inflammatory skin condition affecting the genital area, is associated with an increased risk of vulvar cancer. This condition is characterized by white, patchy skin on the genitals.
Other Genital Cancers
A history of other genital cancers, such as cervical or vaginal cancer, may elevate the risk of developing vulvar cancer. The possible reasons for this include shared risk factors and shared cellular pathways in a few genital cancers.
Melanoma or Atypical Moles
A history of melanoma or atypical moles increases the risk of developing vulvar cancer. Melanoma and certain atypical moles increase the likelihood of abnormal cellular changes, which may lead to vulvar cancer. Also, certain genetic mutations associated with melanoma are found to increase the risk of vulvar carcinoma.
Immune System Deficiency
Conditions leading to immune system deficiency, whether congenital or acquired, may increase the risk of vulvar cancer. A compromised immune system makes one susceptible to developing HPV infection, which is one of the most important vulvar cancer risk factors.
Vulvar Cancer Prevention Tips
Avoid HPV Infection
Avoiding HPV infection is one of the most important vulvar cancer prevention measures. Practicing safe sex and using barrier methods, such as condoms, may help reduce the risk of HPV infection. Avoiding multiple sexual partners is also crucial to reducing the risk of vulvar cancer caused by HPV.
Get Vaccinated
Get vaccinated against the high-risk HPV strains associated with vulvar cancer. In India, there are multiple HPV vaccines available. These vaccines are predominantly recommended between the ages of 9 and 26 and help reduce the risk of HPV-associated vulvar cancer.
Don’t Smoke
Refraining from smoking is also one of the most important vulvar cancer prevention measures. This reduces one’s exposure to harmful carcinogens that are responsible for vulvar cancer formation.
Get Regular Pelvic Checkups
Regular pelvic checkups, including gynecological examinations and Pap smears, are essential for the early detection of precancerous or cancerous changes in the vulva. Early diagnosis and timely intervention are imperative for better quality health outcomes.
Self-Exam of the Vulva
Conducting regular self-examinations of the vulva can help one look for abnormal changes that need immediate medical attention. This promptly supports early detection and on-time treatment of vulvar cancer.
Conclusion
Adopting preventive measures such as avoiding HPV infection, getting vaccinated, refraining from smoking, and prioritizing regular pelvic checkups, including self-exams, constitutes a comprehensive strategy for vulvar cancer prevention. Along with these, it is also important to be aware of the different vulvar cancer symptoms and seek medical attention whenever necessary.
Frequently Asked Questions
Vulvar cancer commonly occurs in postmenopausal women, most commonly between the ages of 60 and 70. While it can affect individuals at any age, the incidence rises with advancing age. Regular gynecological check-ups become crucial, especially for women in this age group, to facilitate early detection and effective management.
Yes, it is possible to develop vulvar cancer without being infected with the human papillomavirus (HPV). Other factors, such as age, smoking, and pre-existing conditions, can lead to vulvar cancer formation independently of HPV infection.
The time taken for HPV to cause vulvar cancer may vary from one patient to another. In some cases, persistent HPV infection over several years may lead to the development of vulvar cancer. That said, not everyone with HPV infection develops cancer, and timely interventions, such as vaccination and regular screenings, can prevent or detect precancerous changes before they progress to the invasive state.
Vulvar Intraepithelial Neoplasia (VIN), a precancerous condition, may sometimes go away without any interventions. However, this is not guaranteed, and VIN is often managed through interventions such as surgery or topical treatments. Regular monitoring is necessary to evaluate the VIN progression and determine the most appropriate course of treatment.
The commonly recommended vulvar cancer prevention measures include quitting smoking, preventing HPV infection, getting vaccinated against HPV, and opting for regular self-examinations and screening.
