Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that affects the uterus, which is the hollow, muscular organ in the female pelvis where a fertilized egg implants and grows during pregnancy. It is the most common type of gynecologic cancer in developed countries.

Types of Uterine Cancer

There are two main types of uterine cancer:

• Endometrial cancer: This type of cancer begins in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium. It is the most common type of uterine cancer, accounting for about 95% of cases.
• Uterine sarcoma: This type of cancer begins in the muscle and supporting tissues of the uterus. It is much rarer than endometrial cancer, accounting for about 5% of cases.

Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

The symptoms of uterine cancer may include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: This is the most common symptom of uterine cancer. It may include bleeding between periods, heavy or prolonged menstrual bleeding, or bleeding after menopause.
• Pelvic pain: Pain in the pelvic area may be a symptom of advanced uterine cancer.
• Abnormal vaginal discharge: A watery or bloody discharge from the vagina may be a symptom of uterine cancer.
• Pain during sex: Pain during sexual intercourse may be a symptom of uterine cancer.
• Weight loss: Unexplained weight loss may be a symptom of advanced uterine cancer.
• Fatigue: Feeling tired or weak may be a symptom of uterine cancer.

Risk Factors for Uterine Cancer

Certain factors may increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer, including:

• Age: The risk of uterine cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over the age of 50.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer.
• Hormone replacement therapy: Taking hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause may increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer.
• Family history: Having a family history of uterine cancer or other gynecologic cancers may increase a woman's risk of developing the disease.
• Genetic mutations: Certain genetic mutations, such as those associated with Lynch syndrome, may increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer.

Treatments for Uterine Cancer

The treatment for uterine cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the woman's overall health. Treatment options may include:

• Surgery: Surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy) is often the primary treatment for uterine cancer.
• Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy may be used to treat uterine cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or to relieve symptoms such as pain.
• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy may be used to treat uterine cancer that has spread to other parts of the body or to relieve symptoms such as pain.
• Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy may be used to treat uterine cancer that is hormone-receptor positive, meaning that it has receptors for hormones such as estrogen and progesterone.
• Targeted therapy: Targeted therapy may be used to treat uterine cancer that has specific genetic mutations or characteristics.

Stages of Uterine Cancer

The stages of uterine cancer are:

• Stage I: The cancer is limited to the uterus.
• Stage II: The cancer has spread to the cervix.
• Stage III: The cancer has spread to the pelvic area, including the lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the lungs or liver.

Prognosis for Uterine Cancer

The prognosis for uterine cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the woman's overall health. Generally, the 5-year survival rate for women with uterine cancer is:

• 90% for women with Stage I cancer
• 70-80% for women with Stage II cancer
• 50-60% for women with Stage III cancer
• 20-30% for women with Stage IV cancer

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is uterine cancer?
Cancer that starts in the uterus, a female reproductive organ.

What are the types of uterine cancer?
Mainly endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.

What is endometrial cancer?
Cancer of the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium.

What causes uterine cancer?
Exact cause unknown, but risk factors include hormone imbalance and family history.

What are symptoms of uterine cancer?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, and weight loss.

How is uterine cancer diagnosed?
Pelvic exam, ultrasound, biopsy, and endometrial sampling.

What are treatment options for uterine cancer?
Surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy.

Can uterine cancer be prevented?
No guaranteed prevention, but maintaining healthy weight and diet may reduce risk.

Is uterine cancer common?
Most common type of gynecologic cancer in developed countries.

What is the prognosis for uterine cancer?
Varies depending on stage and type, but often curable if caught early.