Knowing about gynaecological cancers can “make the difference between cure and possible death,” according to Rhonda Smith-Simmons, a registered nurse.Ms Smith-Simmons, the education officer for the Bermuda Health Centre spoke this week at the Hamilton Rotary Club where she discussed the types, symptoms, and treatment options for all gynaecologic cancers.She said many symptoms of gynaecologic cancers seem like minor issues to women, so they often go ignored.Minor symptoms such as bloating or back pain may go unreported as they can sometimes appear as trivial conditions.But she advised women to keep a diary listing any noticeable changes in their bodily functions and habits.She said the diary would provide women with a concrete record of their symptoms and could greatly help their doctors.Ms Smith-Simmons said: “I really consider what I do of such importance to the community. It is of the utmost importance.”When people recognise the symptoms of these cancers, they are better equipped to aid their doctors in an accurate diagnosis, she said.“It really does help the doctor pinpoint what the possible diagnosis is, and they probably will get diagnosed sooner.“Not all cancers can be prevented. Obviously there is a genetic component sometimes in many, many cancers, but sometimes people aren’t even aware that genetic component exists.“Either their parents have died or people don’t know why their grandparents have died, et cetera, et cetera.“So the whole idea is that if cancer can’t be prevented, you want it to be diagnosed at stage one or stage two.“When most cancers are diagnosed at that stage, the long time survival rate is excellent.”She also noted that September is Gynaecological Cancer Awareness Month.Useful website: www.cancer.bm