What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer is a type of
cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It is the most common type of uterine cancer. The majority of endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas, which start in the glandular cells of the endometrium.
Who is at Risk?
Several factors can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer. These include being over the age of 50, having a history of
obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes. Additionally, women who have never been pregnant, those who experience early menstruation (before age 12), or late menopause (after age 55) also have an increased risk. Hormone therapy for breast cancer, especially treatment with tamoxifen, can further elevate this risk.
What are the Symptoms?
The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. This may include bleeding between periods, unusually heavy menstrual bleeding, or bleeding after menopause. Other symptoms can include pelvic pain, pain during intercourse, and unexplained weight loss.
How is it Diagnosed?
Diagnosis typically begins with a visit to a gynecologist, who will perform a pelvic exam and may order an
ultrasound to visualize the uterus. If endometrial cancer is suspected, a biopsy of the endometrial tissue is often performed. This can be done using an endometrial biopsy or a dilation and curettage (D&C) procedure. Further imaging tests such as CT scans, MRI, or PET scans might be used to determine if the cancer has spread.
Surgery: The most common treatment is a hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the uterus. In some cases, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are also removed.
Radiation Therapy: This can be used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. It may be used before surgery to make the tumor easier to remove or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells. It is often used when cancer has spread beyond the uterus.
Hormone Therapy: Used to block the hormones that fuel the growth of cancer cells, particularly in cases where the cancer is hormone-receptor-positive.
Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, usually while doing little damage to normal cells.
What is the Prognosis?
The prognosis for endometrial cancer is generally favorable, especially when diagnosed early. The five-year survival rate for localized endometrial cancer is about 95%. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate drops significantly.
How Can It Be Prevented?
While there is no sure way to prevent endometrial cancer, certain lifestyle changes can reduce the risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, managing conditions like diabetes and high blood pressure, and using birth control pills under a doctor’s supervision can all lower the risk. Regular pelvic exams and reporting any unusual vaginal bleeding to your doctor can also help in early detection.
Conclusion
Endometrial cancer is a significant health concern but is often treatable, especially when detected early. Understanding the risk factors, symptoms, and treatment options can help individuals make informed decisions about their health and seek timely medical attention.
