Understanding Uterine Cancer
September is Uterine Cancer Awareness Month, a time dedicated to increasing awareness and understanding of uterine cancer. If you or a loved one is navigating a uterine cancer diagnosis, it's important to be informed about the basics, including symptoms, indicators, and available treatments. This blog aims to provide an overview of uterine cancer to help you feel more informed and empowered in your journey.
What is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is the most common cancer of the female reproductive organs. It begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. Although less common, uterine sarcoma is another type of uterine cancer that starts in the muscles or other tissues of the uterus.
Indicators and Risk Factors:
Understanding the risk factors associated with uterine cancer can help you be more vigilant about monitoring your health. Common risk factors include:
Age: Uterine cancer is more common in women over the age of 50.
Hormonal Imbalance: Conditions that affect hormone levels, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) or obesity, can increase risk.
Family History: A family history of uterine cancer or Lynch syndrome may increase your risk.
Use of Estrogen Alone: Taking estrogen without progesterone as hormone replacement therapy can increase risk.
Menstrual History: Early menstruation before age 12 and late menopause after age 55 can increase risk due to prolonged exposure to estrogen.
Symptoms of Uterine Cancer:
Recognizing the symptoms of uterine cancer early can lead to more effective treatment. Common symptoms include:
Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This is the most common symptom, particularly bleeding between periods or after menopause.
Pelvic Pain: Persistent pelvic pain or a feeling of fullness in the pelvic area.
Unusual Vaginal Discharge: A watery or blood-tinged discharge that is not related to menstruation.
Pain During Intercourse: Experiencing pain during intercourse may also be a sign of uterine cancer.
Changes in Urination or Bowel Movements: These changes can occur if the cancer spreads to nearby organs.
If you experience any of these symptoms, especially persistent or unusual bleeding, it’s important to consult your healthcare provider for further evaluation.
Diagnosis:
If uterine cancer is suspected, your healthcare team will likely recommend several diagnostic tests, including:
Pelvic Exam: To feel for any abnormalities in the shape or size of the uterus.
Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound can help visualize the uterus and detect any abnormalities.
Biopsy: A sample of endometrial tissue is taken to check for cancer cells.
Imaging Tests: Additional imaging, like CT or MRI scans, may be used to determine the extent of the cancer.
Treatment Options:
Treatment for uterine cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as your overall health. Common treatment options include:
Surgery: Surgery is the most common treatment for uterine cancer. A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is often performed, which may also include the removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes (bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy) and lymph nodes to check for cancer spread.
Radiation Therapy: Radiation uses high-energy rays to target and kill cancer cells. It may be used after surgery to destroy any remaining cancer cells or as the main treatment if surgery is not an option.
Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy can help slow the growth of uterine cancer cells, especially if the cancer is hormone-sensitive. This treatment may involve taking medications to lower hormone levels or block their effects on cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells throughout the body. It may be recommended if the cancer has spread beyond the uterus.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy: These newer treatments target specific molecules involved in cancer growth or boost the body’s immune response to cancer. They may be used in advanced or recurrent cases.
Navigating a uterine cancer diagnosis can be challenging, but being informed about the basics can help you feel more in control of your health journey. Remember, early detection and timely treatment are key factors in improving outcomes. Always consult your healthcare team to understand the best course of action for your specific situation, and don’t hesitate to reach out for support from family, friends, or support groups.
By staying informed and connected with your healthcare team, you can confidently navigate the next steps on your path to healing.
Written By: Carolyn Vandenbroek, MSDM
Reviewed By: Srilata Gundala, MD
