Uterine Cancer

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Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is a type of cancer that develops in the lining of the uterus (the endometrium). It is the most common type of cancer that affects the female reproductive system.

Causes:

The exact cause of uterine cancer is not known, but there are several risk factors that can increase a woman’s chances of developing the disease, including:

  • Obesity
  • Diabetes
  • High blood pressure
  • Hormonal imbalances (such as estrogen dominance)
  • Starting menstruation at a young age or reaching menopause at an older age
  • Not having children
  • Having a family history of uterine or ovarian cancer
  • Taking tamoxifen for breast cancer treatment

Symptoms:

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, such as bleeding between periods or after menopause. Other symptoms may include:

  • Pelvic pain
  • Abdominal pain or bloating
  • Pain during intercourse
  • Abnormal vaginal discharge
  • Feeling a lump or mass in the pelvis

Diagnosis:

The diagnosis of uterine cancer usually begins with a pelvic exam, during which a doctor will feel for any lumps or changes in the size or shape of the uterus. Other tests that may be used to diagnose uterine cancer include:

  1. Transvaginal ultrasound: A wand-like device is inserted into the vagina to produce images of the uterus and surrounding structures.
  2. Endometrial biopsy: A small sample of tissue is taken from the lining of the uterus and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells.
  3. Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube is inserted through the cervix into the uterus to examine the lining of the uterus.

Treatment:

The treatment for uterine cancer depends on the stage of the cancer and other factors such as the patient’s age and overall health. Treatment options include:

  1. Surgery: The most common treatment for uterine cancer is a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus and cervix. Depending on the stage of the cancer, other tissues may also be removed.
  2. Radiation therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells.
  3. Chemotherapy: Drugs are used to kill cancer cells.
  4. Hormone therapy: Drugs are used to block the effects of estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of some types of uterine cancer.

Prevention:

There are several steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing uterine cancer:

  1. Maintain a healthy weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of uterine cancer.
  2. Exercise regularly: Regular physical activity can help reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
  3. Use birth control: Using birth control pills or other forms of hormonal birth control can help reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
  4. Consider hormone replacement therapy carefully: Estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy increases the risk of uterine cancer. If you need hormone replacement therapy, talk to your doctor about using a combination of estrogen and progesterone.
  5. Get screened: If you have symptoms of uterine cancer or are at high risk for the disease, your doctor may recommend regular screening tests, such as an endometrial biopsy or transvaginal ultrasound.
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