What is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It's the most common type of uterine cancer and is often detected at an early stage because it frequently produces abnormal vaginal bleeding, which prompts women to see their doctor.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?

 The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, including changes in menstruation or bleeding   between periods in premenopausal women, and any bleeding in postmenopausal women. Other symptoms may include:

• Pelvic pain

• Pain during intercourse

• Unintended weight loss

• Difficult or painful urination

• An enlarged uterus felt during a pelvic exam

 

Can We Prevent Endometrial Cancer?

While there's no guaranteed way to prevent endometrial cancer, certain factors may lower the risk:

• Use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills)

• Maintaining a healthy weight and regular physical activity

• Treatment with progesterone if you're taking estrogen for menopause symptoms

• Regular pelvic exams and reporting any unusual symptoms to your doctor early

 

How Do We Diagnose Endometrial Cancer?

Diagnosis often involves:

• Pelvic examination

• Ultrasound imaging of the uterus

• Biopsy of the endometrium, which can be done in several ways, including a hysteroscopy or a dilation and curettage (D&C)

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Endometrial Cancer?

  Treatment depends on the cancer stage and other health factors, and may include:

• Surgery: Often involves removing the uterus (hysterectomy), and may also include removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

• Radiation therapy: Can be used before surgery to shrink the cancer or after to kill any remaining cancer cells.

• Hormone therapy: Can be effective in treating endometrial cancer that has spread.

• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill cancer cells, often used for advanced or recurrent endometrial cancer.

• Targeted therapy: Focuses on specific weaknesses present within cancer cells.

Each patient’s treatment plan is personalized, taking into account the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health and preferences.