* Uterine Cancer

What is Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, originates in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system. Uterine cancer is often diagnosed at an early stage, and the prognosis is generally favorable, especially when detected early.

Types of Uterine Cancer:

• Endometrioid Carcinoma: The most common type, accounting for the majority of uterine cancers. It typically develops in the cells lining the uterus.
• Uterine Sarcoma: A less common and more aggressive type of cancer that develops in the muscle or other tissues of the uterus.

Causes and Risk Factors:

• Age: Uterine cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, and the risk increases with age.
• Hormonal factors: Estrogen plays a role in the development of uterine cancer, and factors that increase estrogen exposure, such as hormone replacement therapy without progestin, obesity, and certain medical conditions, may increase the risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese is a significant risk factor for uterine cancer.
• Diabetes: Women with diabetes are at an increased risk.
• Family history: A family history of uterine, ovarian, or colon cancer may elevate the risk.
• Personal history: Women who have had breast or ovarian cancer may have an increased risk.

Symptoms of Bone Cancer:

• The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially postmenopausal bleeding.
• Other symptoms may include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and an enlarged uterus.

Diagnosis:

• Diagnosis involves a combination of medical history, physical examination, imaging studies (such as transvaginal ultrasound), and a biopsy of the uterine lining.
• Dilation and curettage (D&C) may be performed to obtain a tissue sample for examination.

Treatment:

• Surgery: The primary treatment for uterine cancer involves surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy). In some cases, removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries may also be recommended.
• Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy may be used after surgery to target any remaining cancer cells or, in some cases, as the primary treatment.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be recommended for advanced or recurrent uterine cancer.
• Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy, such as progestin, may be used for certain types of uterine cancer.

Prognosis:

The prognosis for uterine cancer depends on factors such as the stage of cancer, the type of uterine cancer, and the overall health of the patient. Early detection often leads to better outcomes.

Screening Recommendations:

• Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise may help reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
• Using combination hormone replacement therapy (estrogen and progestin) may lower the risk in postmenopausal women.
• Regular gynecologic check-ups, awareness of symptoms, and early medical attention for abnormal bleeding are crucial for early detection.