Endometrial Cancer

What is endometrial cancer?

Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. The uterus is the pear-shaped organ in a woman's pelvis where a baby grows during pregnancy.

Here are some key points about endometrial cancer:

1. Causes: The exact cause of endometrial cancer is not fully understood, but it is believed to be related to changes in the DNA of cells in the endometrium, leading to uncontrolled growth and the formation of tumors. Risk factors for endometrial cancer include hormonal imbalances (such as excess estrogen), obesity, age (most commonly diagnosed in postmenopausal women), diabetes, certain genetic conditions (such as Lynch syndrome), and a history of endometrial hyperplasia or previous pelvic radiation therapy.
2. Symptoms: Endometrial cancer may cause symptoms such as abnormal vaginal bleeding (including postmenopausal bleeding or bleeding between periods), pelvic pain or discomfort, pain during intercourse, and changes in bowel or urinary habits. However, in some cases, endometrial cancer may cause no symptoms, especially in the early stages.
3. Diagnosis: The diagnosis of endometrial cancer typically involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging tests (such as transvaginal ultrasound), and diagnostic procedures (such as endometrial biopsy or dilation and curettage) to obtain a tissue sample from the lining of the uterus for examination under a microscope.
4. Staging: Endometrial cancer is staged based on the extent of the disease, including the size of the tumor, whether it has spread to nearby tissues or lymph nodes, and whether it has metastasized (spread) to distant organs. Staging helps guide treatment decisions and prognosis.
5. Treatment: Treatment for endometrial cancer depends on the stage and characteristics of the tumor, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences. Treatment options may include surgery (such as hysterectomy or removal of nearby lymph nodes), radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or targeted therapy. The goal of treatment is to remove or destroy cancerous cells and prevent recurrence.
6. Prognosis: The prognosis for endometrial cancer varies depending on factors such as the stage of the disease, tumor grade, and response to treatment. Endometrial cancer diagnosed at an early stage (confined to the uterus) generally has a more favorable prognosis, with high survival rates. However, advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer may be more challenging to treat and may have a poorer prognosis.

Regular pelvic exams, Pap smears, and discussions with a healthcare provider can help detect endometrial cancer early when it is most treatable. If you experience any symptoms suggestive of endometrial cancer, it's essential to seek prompt medical evaluation for proper diagnosis and treatment.

Understanding Endometrial Cancer

What is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is the most common type of uterine cancer and typically affects postmenopausal women, though it can occur in younger women as well. This type of cancer is often detected at an early stage because it frequently causes abnormal vaginal bleeding, prompting women to seek medical attention.

Risk Factors

Several factors can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer. These include:

• Age: The risk increases as a woman gets older, particularly after menopause.
• Obesity: Excess body fat can lead to higher levels of estrogen, which is linked to endometrial cancer.
• Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions that cause increased estrogen, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or hormone replacement therapy without the use of progesterone, can elevate risk.
• Family History: A history of endometrial or colorectal cancer in the family can increase susceptibility.
• Diet and Lifestyle: High-fat diets and lack of physical activity are also contributing factors.

Symptoms

Common symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge, especially postmenopausal bleeding
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Pain during intercourse
• Unintended weight loss

These symptoms can be associated with other conditions as well, so it's important to consult a healthcare professional for an accurate diagnosis.

Diagnosis and Treatment

Diagnosis typically involves a pelvic examination, ultrasound, and biopsy of the endometrial tissue. If cancer is detected, additional imaging tests may be conducted to determine the cancer's stage.

Treatment options depend on the stage and extent of the cancer and may include:

• Surgery: The most common treatment is the surgical removal of the uterus (hysterectomy), sometimes including the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy).
• Radiation Therapy: High-energy rays are used to target and kill cancer cells.
• Chemotherapy: The use of drugs to destroy cancer cells may be considered, especially if the cancer has spread.
• Hormone Therapy: Medications that influence hormone levels can be used to slow the growth of cancer cells that are influenced by estrogen or progesterone.

Prevention and Awareness

Maintaining a healthy weight, staying physically active, and having regular health check-ups can help reduce the risk of endometrial cancer. In the United Kingdom, organisations like Cancer Research UK and the NHS provide resources and support for those affected by endometrial cancer. Awareness and early detection are critical for effective treatment and improved outcomes.