Endometrial Cancer: An Overview
Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. It is the most common form of uterine cancer and primarily affects postmenopausal women. Early detection often leads to successful treatment, making awareness and timely diagnosis crucial.
Causes and Risk Factors
Endometrial cancer develops when cells in the endometrium start growing uncontrollably. While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors have been identified:
Hormonal imbalance: Excess estrogen without enough progesterone increases risk.
Age: Most cases occur in women over 50.
Obesity: Fat tissue can produce estrogen, increasing risk.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): Can lead to hormonal imbalances.
Family history: A history of endometrial or colorectal cancer (especially Lynch syndrome) increases risk.
Diabetes and hypertension: Linked to higher incidences of endometrial cancer.
Use of tamoxifen: A breast cancer drug with estrogen-like effects on the uterus.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptom is abnormal uterine bleeding, especially after menopause. Other symptoms may include:
Pelvic pain
Pain during intercourse
Unusual vaginal discharge
Unexplained weight loss
Diagnosis
Diagnosis typically involves a series of evaluations, including:
Pelvic examination
Transvaginal ultrasound to examine endometrial thickness
Endometrial biopsy or dilation and curettage (DC) to sample uterine tissue
Imaging studies like CT scans or MRI for staging the disease
Treatment Options
Treatment depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient's overall health. Common approaches include:
Surgery: Hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is the most common treatment.
Radiation therapy: May be used post-surgery or for advanced stages.
Hormonal therapy: Especially useful for hormone receptor-positive cancers.
Chemotherapy: Used for aggressive or advanced-stage cancer.
Prognosis and Survival Rate
When detected early, endometrial cancer has a high survival rate. The five-year survival rate for localized cancer is over 90%. However, outcomes decline if the cancer spreads beyond the uterus.
Prevention and Awareness
Preventive steps include maintaining a healthy weight, managing chronic conditions like diabetes, and regular gynecological check-ups. Women on hormone replacement therapy should discuss risks with their doctors.
