When a diagnosis of gynecological cancer arrives, the first reactions are fear, uncertainty and amazement. One thinks: but how will I deal with all this? And where can I get treatment? Choosing whom to trust is the first step, a step to be taken in full awareness and with the right information, identifying without haste a center specialized in gynecological oncology. This is the suggestion of the European Gynaecological Cancer Society (ESGO), which brings together the entire gynecological cancer community in Europe.

 

However, statistics tell us that not all patients turn to one of these specialized centers. The reasons for this are varied: the rush to get treatment, the need to do it close to home due to organizational challenges, the costs of moving to another city, and so on. And so, sometimes, a hasty choice is made that may later have terrible consequences on survival and quality of life. But why is it so important to choose a specialized center? What advantages can it give to the patient?

 

Firstly: what defines a specialized center?

The ESGO has defined rigorous certification criteria for centers specialized in the treatment of gynecological cancers, ensuring that patients receive treatment based on the best scientific evidence. Among the main criteria, we find: the volume of cases treated (at least 20 per year), high-quality and certified surgery with an optimal cytoreduction rate (zero residue) in 65% of operated patients, multidisciplinary approach (gynecologist surgeon, gynecologist oncologist, radiologist, oncologist, radiation therapist, pathologist, geneticist, pain therapy specialists and psychologist), access to innovative technologies, research activities and involvement in international clinical trials, compliance with international guidelines for care and post-care, certified and continuous training of medical and surgical staff, good results in terms of survival and quality of life of patients, with continuous monitoring of their data and comparison with international standards.

 

Secondly: what are the advantages for patients?

They are many.

First of all, a higher survival rate, as demonstrated by various international studies.

Top-level, certified surgery, which reduces the risk of intraoperative and postoperative complications.

Access to innovative therapies and to clinical trials, which make new therapies available when it seems that nothing else works.

Personalized treatment, which is created individually for each patient and planned thanks to the multidisciplinary approach adopted in all specialized centers.

Global support offered to the patient, who feels protected and accompanied on her journey, with special attention to her quality of life.

 

Dealing with a gynecological cancer is a difficult journey but choosing a specialized gynecological oncology center is a fundamental step in receiving optimal care. These centers offer not only advanced skills and modern technologies, but also a patient-centered approach, with the aim of ensuring the best possible results in terms of survival and quality of life. Check out the list of ESGO accredited centers at this link https://www.esgo.org/accredited-centres/