Gynecological cancer is one of the leading causes of death in women. In the US, 100,000 cases are reported yearly, and 33,000 die from gynecological cancer annually. The numbers are significantly lower in the UK, but it is still a cause for concern. One of the major factors in the increasing number of cases is the lack of awareness and the stigma surrounding gynecological issues. So many of us don't even know what to ask our doctors. Plus, many women do not wish to undergo the often invasive screening procedure. Many are unaware that there are five types of gynecological cancer they can be susceptible to. So how can women get information and protect themselves? 

Welcome to the Scarlet Society podcast. In this episode, Stacey Lindsay speaks with Athena Lamnisos of The Eve Appeal, a leading cancer charity funding research and raising awareness of early diagnosis and prevention of gynecological cancers. Getting earlier detection right will have the most significant impact in terms of saving women’s lives. Now is your chance to discover the truth about gynecological cancer and what you can do to better care for your body.

“If you have a cervix, you need to be screened.”

- Athena Lamnisos

In This Episode:

00:00 Introduction from today's host, Stacey Lindsay

01:59 The mission and the work being done by Athena Lamnisos and her organization

06:43 What's the reason behind people's lack of awareness about the threat of gynecological cancer?

08:33 The five types of gynecological cancer, the risk factors, and the real reason women don't go on regular screening 

12:43 The importance of being comfortable talking about our bodies

15:59 What should we ask our doctors, and what body changes must we pay attention to?

18:25 Have you been vaccinated against this pretty evil little virus called HPV?

24:15 How can we minimize the shame around getting examined for possible gynecological issues?

30:00 A powerful message for nonbinary individuals, trans men, and women over 40 (and just about anyone with female reproductive organs)

33:59 Support the work that Athena is doing through The Eve Appeal

Resources:

- The Five Gynecological Cancers: A Brief Explainer

- Training Resources for GP and Community Nurses

Connect with Athena Lamnisos and The Eve Appeal:

- Website

- Instagram

- Facebook

- YouTube

Connect with Jade & Scarlet Society:

- Instagram

- Website

- Facebook