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Uterine Cancer (Endometrial Cancer)
Uterine cancer is a common cancer appearing within the female reproductive system. Cancer starts when the uterus's healthy cells change and leads to uncontrolled growth, forming a mass called a tumor.
A tumor can be cancerous (malignant) or benign, and a malignant tumor can (metastasize) grow and spread to other body parts. A benign tumor can increase in size but usually will not spread to other body parts.
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Get A Second OpinionTypes of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer can be classified into two main types: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.
1. Endometrial Cancer
- Development: Occurs in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus.
- Prevalence: It is the most common type of cancer affecting the female reproductive system.
2. Uterine Sarcoma
- Development: Arises in the myometrium, the muscle wall of the uterus.
- Prevalence: This type of uterine cancer is highly uncommon.
Understanding the type of uterine cancer is crucial for determining the appropriate treatment and management plan.
Signs And Symptoms Of Uterine Cancer
The symptoms of uterine cancer can resemble those of other diseases, especially those affecting reproductive organs. Consult your gynecologist if you experience unusual pain, leaking, or bleeding. Accurate diagnosis is critical for appropriate treatment.
Signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma include:
- Before Menopause: Vaginal bleeding between periods
- After Menopause: Even a little vaginal bleeding or spotting
- Pelvic Pain: Lower abdominal pain or cramps directly below your belly
- Postmenopausal Discharge: Thin, white, or clear vaginal discharge
- Heavy Bleeding: Extremely prolonged, heavy, or frequent vaginal bleeding if you're over 40
Causes of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer occurs when mutations develop in the cells of the uterus. These mutated cells grow and multiply uncontrollably, forming a mass known as a tumor. Tumors can be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).
Who Is at Risk of Developing Uterine Cancer?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer, many of which are related to the balance between estrogen and progesterone.
Hormonal Factors
- Obesity: Excess body fat can alter hormone levels.
- Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome (PCOS): This condition can disrupt the balance of estrogen and progesterone.
- Unopposed Estrogen Therapy: Taking estrogen without progesterone increases the risk.
- Never Being Pregnant: Increased exposure to estrogen raises the risk.
Genetic Factors
- Lynch Syndrome: A genetic disorder that increases the risk of various cancers, including endometrial cancer.
- Family History: Genetic mutations such as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) can increase risk.
Lifestyle Factors
- Age: The risk rises as women get older, with most cases occurring after age 50.
- Diet: A high-fat diet can lead to obesity, which is a risk factor.
- Smoking and Alcohol: These habits can increase the risk of various cancers, including uterine cancer.
Menstruation and Reproduction-Related Factors
- Early Menstruation: Starting periods before age 12 increases the risk due to longer estrogen exposure.
- Late Menopause: Menopause after age 50 also increases risk due to prolonged estrogen exposure.
- Long Menstrual Span: A longer overall duration of menstruation increases risk.
Medical Treatments
- Previous Pelvic Radiation Therapy: Radiation can damage cell DNA, increasing the risk of secondary cancers.
- Estrogen Replacement Therapy (ERT): Using estrogen without progesterone raises the risk.
- Tamoxifen Use: This breast cancer treatment can act like estrogen in the uterus, increasing cancer risk.
If you have any of these risk factors, consult your healthcare provider to understand your risk and take preventative measures.
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Book an AppointmentDiagnosis Of Uterine Cancer
If you notice any symptoms of uterine cancer, consult your doctor. The doctor will examine the symptoms, potential risk factors, and family history. Conduct a physical test, and perform a pelvic assessment. Other tests include:
- Lab tests
- CT scans
- MRI scans
- Transvaginal ultrasound
- Other tests like an endometrial biopsy, and hysteroscopy.
Treatment of Uterine Cancer
Many endometrial cancer patients require surgery, but your specific treatment plan depends on the type of cancer and your overall health. Additional treatments may include:
- Chemotherapy: Uses powerful drugs to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Involves targeted radiation beams to destroy cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: Uses hormones to treat cancer.
- Immunotherapy: Aids the immune system in fighting cancer.
- Targeted Therapy: Uses medications to prevent cancer cells from multiplying.
- Surgery: Depending on the size and spread of the cancer, the surgeon may perform:
- Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus and cervix.
- Radical Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, and nearby tissues.
Conclusion
Following healthy habits such as eating right, getting enough sleep, and exercising regularly can all help you with uterine cancer. Any changes in menstrual health or any uncommon symptoms should be immediately reported to a gynecologist.
At Medicover Hospitals, we have top gynecologists, expert oncologists, and women's health experts with years of experience in treating and managing women-related diseases and conditions. Reach out to us for professional guidance and treatment options.
Frequently Asked Questions
Yes, treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy & hormone therapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer.
A family history of ovarian or uterine cancer, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, and advanced age are risk factors.
Surgery may involve removing the uterus (hysterectomy) or other affected tissues to treat or prevent the spread of cancer.
Yes, uterine cancer can spread to nearby organs and lymph nodes, and in later stages, to distant organs like the lungs or bones.
Depending on the type of treatment, side effects may include changes in bowel or bladder habits, hair loss, exhaustion, and nausea.
Using estrogen without progesterone after menopause can increase the risk of uterine cancer. Discuss hormone therapy risks with a doctor.
Recurrence is possible, so regular follow-up appointments and monitoring are essential after treatment.
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