Increasing awareness of uterine cancer is important for women to go for gynecological examinations regularly and pay attention to their symptoms. Health organizations and community leaders should organize informative programs about cervical cancer and emphasize the importance of early diagnosis to women. Additionally, making healthy lifestyle choices may also help reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
What is uterine cancer?
Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the inner layer of the uterus (endometrium). This type of cancer occurs as a result of abnormal growth and proliferation of cells on the lining of the uterus. Uterine cancer is directly related to the reproductive system of women and usually occurs in the post-menopausal period. However, it can also be seen in young women in rare cases. The most common type of uterine cancer is endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer arises from the tissue called endometrium located in the inner layer of the uterus. Endometrial cancer accounts for the majority of uterine cancers and usually occurs in women after menopause.
Uterine cancer usually occurs after menopause, but it can also occur in young women. Some common risk factors include obesity, hormonal imbalances, genetic predisposition, old age, diabetes, high blood pressure and estrogen hormone therapy. However, uterine cancer is a condition that women of all ages can encounter.
What are the symptoms of uterine cancer?
Uterine cancer usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages. Symptoms of uterine cancer appear in later stages. Symptoms of uterine cancer include:
- Vaginal bleeding (including postmenopausal bleeding)
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Vaginal discharge
- Changes in urinary or bowel habits
- Weight loss and fatigue
- foul-smelling discharge
- swelling in the groin area
What are the first symptoms of uterine cancer?
Uterine cancer usually does not cause symptoms in the early stages, but some symptoms may be a sign of uterine cancer:
- abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Pain in the pelvic area
- discharge that is different from normal
- unexplained weight loss
- Pain during sexual intercourse
- Tiredness
What should someone with uterine cancer do?
Regular gynecological examinations and Pap smear tests are important for early diagnosis. If you’ve been diagnosed with uterine cancer, the most important thing you can do is work with your doctor to create the best treatment plan for you. Your treatment options will vary depending on the stage of your cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences. It is also important to work with your doctor to deal with the side effects of treatment. Side effects may include fatigue, nausea, vomiting, hair loss, and increased risk of infection.
Being diagnosed with uterine cancer can be a difficult and stressful experience. There are many resources available to support you during this difficult time. You can talk to family and friends or join a support group.
How is uterine cancer treated?
When uterine cancer is diagnosed, treatment options usually include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy or hormone therapy. Treatment for uterine cancer varies depending on the stage of the cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences. The most common treatment options are:
- The most commonly used treatment for uterine cancer is surgery. In this procedure, the uterus, ovaries and sometimes surrounding tissues are removed.
- Radiotherapy is used to use high-energy rays to kill cancer. It can be used before or after surgery, or used alone.
- Chemotherapy drugs are injected throughout the body or given intravenously. It is used to kill cancer.
- With hormone therapy, the production or effects of hormones such as estrogen and progesterone are prevented. The hormone is used in sensitive cancers.
- Targeted therapy or immunotherapy can be used.