Vulvar Cancer

This information was provided with permission from The Gynecologic Cancer Foundation.

Vulvar cancer is caused by the growth and spread of abnormal cells of the skin that covers the genital area of a woman called the vulva.

Symptoms: Itching, burning, bleeding, pain, or a new lump or ulcer in the vulvar or clitoral area.
Risk Factors: Risk factors include HPV infection, HIV infection, age—70 years of age or older, and chronic vulvar irritation. 

Screening/Prevention: Examination of the vulva for changes by a woman at home or during her yearly pelvic exam may lead to early detection. Although not approved by the FDA to prevent vulvar cancer, getting the HPV vaccine may help prevent this disease. 

Incidence: Vulvar cancer is uncommon. It is estimated that there will be about 4,300 new cases diagnosed and approximately 940 deaths from vulvar cancer in the United States during 2011. Vulvar cancer is usually diagnosed in the early stages and is most often cured with surgical treatment. (American Cancer Society)