Uterine cancer

DEFINITION

Endometrial cancer is a type of Cancer that begins in the uterus. The uterus is the hollow, pear-shaped pelvic organ in women where fetal development occurs. Endometrial cancer begins in the layer of cells that form the lining (endometrium) of the uterus. Other types of Cancer can form in the uterus, including uterine Sarcoma, but they are much less common than Endometrial cancer.

SYMPTOMS

• Vaginal bleeding after Menopause
• Bleeding between periods
• Abnormal discharge from the vagina
• Pelvic pain
• Pain during intercourse

CAUSES

The exact cause of Endometrial cancer is unknown, but it is believed to be related to genetic mutations within the cells of the endometrium. These mutations cause normal cells to become abnormal and grow uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor.

RISK FACTORS

• Changes in hormone levels
• More years of menstruation
• Never being pregnant
• Older age
• Obesity
• Hormone therapy for Breast cancer
• Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal Cancer (HNPCC)

COMPLICATIONS

Endometrial cancer can spread to other parts of the body, with the lungs being the most common site of metastasis.

PREPARING FOR YOUR APPOINTMENT

It's important to be well-prepared for your doctor's appointment if you have symptoms that worry you. Make sure to write down your symptoms, medications, and questions for your doctor.

TESTS AND DIAGNOSIS

Diagnostic tests for Endometrial cancer include pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, endometrial biopsy, and dilation and curettage (D&C). Staging may involve chest X-ray, CT scan, PET scan, and blood tests.

TREATMENTS AND DRUGS

Treatment options include surgery (hysterectomy), radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy based on the stage and characteristics of the Cancer.

LIFESTYLE AND HOME REMEDIES

To reduce the risk of Endometrial cancer, consider discussing hormone therapy risks with your doctor, using birth control pills, maintaining a healthy weight, and exercising regularly.

COPING AND SUPPORT

After a diagnosis of Endometrial cancer, seek out information about your Cancer, maintain a support system with friends and family, connect with other survivors through support groups, and stay involved in activities when possible.

QUESTIONS

1. What are some symptoms of Endometrial cancer?

Vaginal bleeding after Menopause

Bleeding between periods

Abnormal discharge from the vagina

Pelvic pain

Pain during intercourse

2. What are some risk factors for Endometrial cancer?

Changes in hormone levels

More years of menstruation

Never being pregnant

Older age

Obesity

3. How is Endometrial cancer diagnosed?

Through tests such as pelvic examination, ultrasound, hysteroscopy, biopsy, and D&C.

4. What are some treatment options for Endometrial cancer?

Surgery (hysterectomy), radiation therapy, hormone therapy, and chemotherapy.

5. How can one reduce their risk of Endometrial cancer?

By discussing hormone therapy risks with a doctor,

Using birth control pills,

Maintaining a healthy weight,

Exercising regularly.

6. What are some complications of Endometrial cancer?

Spread to other parts of the body,

Most commonly to the lungs.

7. What should one do to prepare for a doctor's appointment regarding concerns about Endometrial cancer?

Write down symptoms and medications,

Prepare questions for the doctor.

8. What is one factor that increases the risk of Endometrial cancer related to menstruation?

Starting menstruation at an early age or beginning Menopause later increases the risk.

9. What does hormone therapy involve for advanced Endometrial cancer?

Medications that affect hormone levels in the body such as progestin or estrogen-lowering drugs.

10. How can one cope with an Endometrial cancer diagnosis?

Seek information about treatment options,

Maintain a strong support system,

Stay involved in usual activities when possible.