Uterine Cancer Symptoms Causes Diagnosis and Treatment Guide
Uterine Cancer
Reviewed by Kamran Mahmood, MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Board Certified in Pulmonology & Critical Care.
Uterine cancer, particularly endometrial cancer, is the most common gynecologic cancer, primarily affecting postmenopausal women. Early symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding make it more detectable and treatable than many other cancers. Factors such as hormonal imbalances, obesity, and genetic predisposition can increase the risk. Understanding the signs, risk factors, and treatment options is crucial for early detection and better outcomes.
Risk Factors
Several factors increase the risk of uterine cancer, including:
Obesity:
Excess estrogen from fat tissue can stimulate abnormal cell growth in the uterus.
Hormonal Therapy:
Prolonged use of estrogen without progesterone, such as in hormone replacement therapy, heightens risk.
Age:
Postmenopausal women are at higher risk.
Family History:
Genetic syndromes like Lynch syndrome also increase susceptibility.
Common Symptoms
Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially postmenopause.
Pelvic pain or discomfort.
Pain during intercourse.
Unusual vaginal discharge, which may be watery or blood-tinged.
Diagnosis
Pelvic Exam:
Checks for abnormalities in the uterus or nearby structures.
Ultrasound:
Transvaginal ultrasound helps identify unusual thickening of the uterine lining.
Biopsy:
A tissue sample confirms the presence and type of cancer.
Treatment
Surgery:
Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is the primary treatment. In some cases, the ovaries and fallopian tubes are also removed.
Radiation Therapy:
Used to destroy remaining cancer cells post-surgery or shrink tumors before surgery.
Hormone Therapy:
Progesterone-based treatments slow the growth of hormone-sensitive cancers.
Chemotherapy:
Recommended for advanced or aggressive cancers.
Screening
There’s no standard screening test for uterine cancer, but women with high risk or symptoms should consult their doctor for early evaluation.
Prevention
Maintain a healthy weight and active lifestyle.
Manage conditions like diabetes or high blood pressure.
Discuss risks of prolonged estrogen therapy with a doctor.
Be aware of unusual symptoms and seek prompt medical attention.
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