Is uterine cancer treatable?

Yes, treatment options include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, depending on the stage and type of cancer.

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3.5 Minute

27-07-2024 Team Medicover Oncology

Uterine Cancer (Endometrial Cancer)

Q: Who is at risk for uterine cancer?

Risk factors include a family history of ovarian or uterine cancer, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, and advanced age.

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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Types 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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Diagnosis 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.