Endometrial cancer, or endometrial carcinoma, originates in the cells of the uterine lining, known as the endometrium. It is the most common type of cancer that starts in the uterus. This cancer begins when cells in the endometrium grow uncontrollably.
Like any cancer, endometrial cancer cells can spread to other parts of the body. Common symptoms include abnormal vaginal bleeding, spotting, or unusual discharge. If you experience these symptoms, consult a healthcare provider.
Endometrial cancer often presents with noticeable symptoms. A common sign is bleeding during menopause. Menopause, defined as the absence of periods for one year, should not be followed by any vaginal bleeding. Any bleeding after menopause is abnormal and requires a gynecological evaluation.
Other symptoms include changes in menstrual cycle length or heavy bleeding during periods. Additionally, pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis and pain during or after sex can be indicative of uterine cancer.
If you experience any symptoms of endometrial cancer, it is essential to consult a gynecologist. While these symptoms may not always indicate a severe condition, a professional evaluation is necessary to determine the cause and appropriate treatment.
The exact cause of endometrial cancer is often unknown. However, fluctuations in progesterone and estrogen levels are believed to play a significant role. These hormonal changes can impact the endometrium, leading to cancer. Most endometrial cancers are detected early due to symptoms like abnormal bleeding, especially in postmenopausal women.
According to the American Cancer Society, most endometrial cancers are adenocarcinomas, originating from glandular tissue. Other types include squamous cell carcinoma, small cell carcinoma, uterine carcinosarcoma, and serous carcinoma.
Endometrial cancers are classified into two types:
• Type 1: Cancer cells grow slowly and are less likely to spread rapidly.
• Type 2: Cancer cells grow aggressively and spread quickly outside the uterus.
Obesity significantly increases the risk of developing endometrial cancer. Obese women are six times more likely to develop this cancer than those with average weight. High levels of circulating estrogen also contribute to this increased risk.
While rare, endometrial cancer can occur during pregnancy. Fortunately, it rarely affects the baby directly. Treatment during pregnancy is complex and typically involves a team of experienced healthcare providers. Surgery is often considered safe during all stages of pregnancy. Chemotherapy during the second and third trimesters is generally safe, though it may cause side effects like anemia and low birth weight. Chemotherapy in the first trimester is usually avoided due to the risk of birth defects or miscarriage.
The primary complication of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly post-menopause. Other complications include pain during or after sex and lower abdominal pain. Consult a gynecologist if you experience these symptoms.
To diagnose endometrial cancer, your doctor will review your symptoms and medical history. They may recommend tests such as:
• Endometrial Biopsy: A thin tube is used to remove a small tissue sample from the endometrium.
• Hysteroscopy: A flexible tube with a camera is inserted into the uterus to visually inspect and collect samples.
• Dilation and Curettage (D&C): If biopsy results are inconclusive, this procedure involves scraping tissue from the uterus for further analysis.
Endometrial cancer is often detected early, with the following stages:
• Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the uterus.
• Stage 2: Cancer has spread to the cervix.
• Stage 3: Cancer extends beyond the uterus to the fallopian tubes, ovaries, or vagina.
• Stage 4: Cancer has spread to other organs such as the bladder or kidneys.
Treatment varies by stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.
To reduce the risk of endometrial cancer:
• Manage Your Weight: Obesity increases risk, so maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is crucial.
• Exercise Regularly: Physical fitness helps lower cancer risk.
• Address Abnormal Bleeding: Seek medical advice if you experience unusual bleeding.
• Evaluate Hormone Therapy: Discuss the benefits and risks of hormone therapy with your doctor.
• Full Disclosure: Inform your doctor of any family history of cancer or genetic syndromes, such as Lynch syndrome.
With early detection, the survival rate for endometrial cancer is high, around 90%. Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and consulting with healthcare professionals contribute to a positive long-term outlook.
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