Endometrial cancer is a special kind of cancer that starts when cells grow in the uterus. The uterus is where babies grow in a woman's body. This cancer begins in a layer of cells that make the inside of the uterus, called the endometrium. Some people also call it uterine cancer.
There are different kinds of cancer that can begin in the uterus, such as uterine sarcoma, but they're not as frequent as endometrial cancer. Normally, we can discover endometrial cancer in its early stages because it gives hints. A common hint is unexpected vaginal bleeding. If we find endometrial cancer early, it can often be treated by removing the uterus through surgery.
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Endometrial cancer is generally classified into two main types:
Type 1 (Endometrioid): This is the most common type and usually has a good prognosis. It is often related to an excess of estrogen.
Type 2 (Non-Endometrioid): This type is less common and includes subtypes like serous and clear cell carcinomas. It is typically more aggressive.
Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer:
Early detection is vital, and recognizing the following symptoms can be essential:
Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause.
Unusually heavy or prolonged menstrual periods.
Pelvic pain or discomfort.
Pain during urination or intercourse.
Unintended weight loss.
Causes Of Endometrial Cancer:
Doctors don't know the exact cause of endometrial cancer, but it starts when cells in the uterus lining (endometrium) undergo DNA changes. These changes make the cells grow rapidly and live longer than they should, forming a tumor. This tumor can damage healthy tissues and spread to other parts of the body.
What are the Risk Factors of Endometrial cancer
Things that can make you more likely to have endometrial cancer are:
Hormonal imbalances, especially with estrogen and progesterone, can affect the endometrium.
Increased risk factors:
Being overweight
Having diabetes
Irregular periods
Estrogen-only hormone therapy after menopause
Early menstruation (before age 12)
Late menopause
Never being pregnant
Older age, especially after menopause
Using tamoxifen for breast cancer
Excess fat can disrupt hormones, raising cancer risk.
Consult your doctor if on tamoxifen, as its benefits usually outweigh the small risk of endometrial cancer.
How to Diagnose Endometrial Cancer?
Tests and ways to find endometrial cancer include:
Physical Exam: A doctor examines your genital area and uses fingers to feel the uterus and ovaries. A speculum may be used to inspect the vagina.
Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, MRI, and CT scans create images to locate cancer. An ultrasound wand might be used vaginally for uterus pictures.
Hysteroscopy: A hysteroscope, a small tube with a light, is inserted through the vagina to view the uterus lining.
Biopsy: A small tissue sample from the uterus lining is taken in-office and sent to a lab to check for cancer.
Dilation and Curettage (D&C): If more detail is needed, a procedure to scrape and examine the uterus lining under a microscope is done.
What are the Treatment Options for Endometrial Cancer?
When it's time to treat endometrial cancer, doctors have a few ways to help. The treatment depends on how big the cancer is:
Surgery: Doctors might need to take out not only the uterus but also some nearby parts. This is called a hysterectomy. They might also remove the ovaries and tubes if needed.
Radiation Therapy: This is like a special light that targets and kills cancer cells. It's a bit like using a laser on the bad cells.
Chemotherapy: This is strong medicine that travels all around your body to find and fight cancer cells. It's like a superhero medicine.
Hormone Therapy: This changes how your hormones work. Hormones are like body messengers, and some can make the cancer grow. By changing them, doctors try to stop the cancer.
Endometrial Cancer Dos and Don'ts:
Endometrial Cancer Do's
Endometrial Cancer Don'ts
Talk to your doctor about hormone therapy if you're in menopause.
Don't start hormone therapy without talking to your doctor first.
Consider using birth control pills for at least a year.
Don't ignore side effects of birth control pills.
Stay active and eat balanced meals to keep a healthy weight.
Don't ignore your weight if you're too heavy.
Pay attention if you have unusual symptoms like strange bleeding or discomfort.
Don't ignore symptoms that might be linked to cancer.
Go to your regular check-ups and tests your doctor suggests.
Don't skip check-ups or wait if you're worried.
Tell your doctor about your family's cancer history.
Don't forget to share your family's cancer history with your doctor.
When To See A Doctor?
If you see any signs that seem strange, like bleeding after you've already stopped having periods or if you feel ongoing discomfort in your pelvis, don't wait. Reach out to a doctor as soon as you can. It's important to get the right check-up and advice. Don't be afraid to talk to healthcare professionals in a well-recognized gynecology hospital about your concerns – they're here to help you understand what's going on and guide you in the best direction.
If you have any questions, please fill out the enquiry form or call us, and we will get back to you promptly.
While most cases are not hereditary, some genetic conditions like Lynch syndrome can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Genetic counseling and testing can be considered for those with a family history of the disease.
What are the potential side effects of endometrial cancer treatment?
Side effects can include fatigue, nausea, hot flashes, vaginal dryness, and lymphedema. Long-term effects can vary based on treatment type and individual health factors.
Can endometrial cancer be prevented?
While there is no sure way to prevent endometrial cancer, maintaining a healthy weight, managing conditions like diabetes, and using birth control pills (which reduce the risk) can help.
Does having a history of breast cancer increase the risk of endometrial cancer?
Yes, especially if tamoxifen, a drug used in breast cancer treatment, is used, as it can act as an estrogen in the uterus.
Can endometrial cancer affect fertility?
Yes, treatments like hysterectomy and radiation can affect fertility. Fertility preservation options should be discussed with a healthcare provider before starting treatment.