Uterine Cancer: What You Need to Know
Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that affects the uterus, the pear-shaped organ in the female pelvis where a baby grows during pregnancy. Uterine cancer can be divided into two main types: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.
Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer. It starts in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. The endometrium changes throughout the menstrual cycle under the influence of hormones called oestrogen and progesterone. If the endometrium grows abnormally and forms a tumour, it is called endometrial cancer.
Uterine Sarcoma
Uterine sarcoma is a rare type of uterine cancer. It starts in the myometrium, the muscular wall of the uterus, or in the tissues that support the uterus. Uterine sarcomas are more aggressive and harder to treat than endometrial cancers.
Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
The symptoms of uterine cancer may include:
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause
- Bleeding between periods
- Abnormal, heavy or irregular periods
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Pain during sex
- Unexplained weight loss
- Abnormal vaginal discharge
If you have any of these symptoms, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Uterine cancer can be diagnosed by a physical exam, a pelvic exam, an ultrasound, a biopsy, a hysteroscopy or other tests. The treatment options depend on the type and stage of uterine cancer, as well as your overall health and preferences. They may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy or targeted therapy.
Causes of Uterine Cancer
The exact causes of uterine cancer are not known, but some factors may increase your risk of developing it. These include:
- Age: Uterine cancer is more common in women over 50, especially after menopause.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase your oestrogen levels, which can stimulate the growth of endometrial cells.
- Hormone therapy: Taking oestrogen alone or combined with progestin for menopausal symptoms can increase your risk of endometrial cancer. However, taking progestin alone or with an intrauterine device (IUD) may lower your risk.
- Family history: Having a close relative with uterine cancer may increase your risk.
- Genetic syndromes: Having certain inherited conditions, such as Lynch syndrome or Cowden syndrome, can increase your risk of uterine cancer and other cancers.
- Other medical conditions: Having diabetes, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), endometrial hyperplasia or a history of breast or ovarian cancer can increase your risk of uterine cancer.
How to Lower Your Risk of Uterine Cancer
You may be able to lower your risk of uterine cancer by:
- Maintaining a healthy weight
- Exercising regularly
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables and whole grains
- Limiting alcohol intake
- Quitting smoking
- Using birth control pills for at least one year
- Having regular pelvic exams and Pap tests
Uterine cancer is a serious condition that requires prompt diagnosis and treatment. However, if detected early, it can be cured in most cases. Therefore, it is important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of uterine cancer and to seek medical attention if you notice any changes in your vaginal bleeding or pelvic health.
Sources
[1] Uterine Cancer (Endometrial Cancer): Symptoms & Treatment - https://my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/16409-uterine-cancer
[2] 4 Stages of Uterine Cancer & The Symptoms of Each - https://www.webmd.com/cancer/cervical-cancer/uterine-cancer-stages
[3] Endometrial (Uterine) Cancer: Overview, Risk Factors, Prevention - https://www.webmd.com/cancer/understanding-endometrial-cancer-basics
[4] What is Uterine cancer and its possible symptoms, causes, risk and prevention methods? - https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/condition/Uterine-cancer/hp-Uterine-cancer?source=conditioncdx