Cancers of the uterus, including cancer of the endometrium, are some of the most common forms of female reproductive organs cancers. The lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, is where a fertilized egg implants to form a fetus. Excess estrogen and obesity are two of the most common causes of endometrial hyperplasia, or abnormal cell growth. Women of Caucasian descent are at an increased risk for endometrial cancer, while women of African-American origin are at risk for this form of cancer.
If you suspect that you may have endometrial cancer, it is important to follow your treatment plan closely to determine recurrence. After undergoing treatment, you should return for checkups every three to six months for the first two years. Then, you should follow up every year. During follow-ups, inform your healthcare team of any changes you notice in your symptoms. If your doctor suggests treatment that does not work, ask about clinical trials.
Despite its high risk, endometrial cancer is curable if detected early. While there are no cures for this type of cancer, it is possible to reduce the risk by using Tamoxifen or other hormone therapies. While hormone therapy can delay the menopause, it has other risks. Using birth control pills can also reduce your risk of endometrial cancer. But oral contraceptives do come with side effects.
Abnormal vaginal bleeding is one of the most common symptoms of endometrial cancer. Nearly 90% of women with endometrial cancer experience some form of abnormal vaginal bleeding. These symptoms can include bleeding between periods, bleeding after menopause, or even a change in period length. However, women with abnormal bleeding should see their healthcare provider as soon as possible. It may be indicative of a pre-cancer condition or a symptom of endometriosis.
The risk of developing this type of cancer is higher in women who began menstruation at a young age and who went through menopause later in life. Women who did not breastfeed or used birth control methods that stopped ovulation may also increase their risk of developing this type of cancer. A woman’s age may also increase her risk of developing endometrial cancer, so it is important to know what factors are associated with it.
Endometrial cancer is one of the most common types of uterine cancer. It develops when cells of the endometrium grow out of control and form large collections called tumors. A few of these tumors are benign, meaning that they cannot spread throughout the body. But others are malignant, which means they have the potential to spread throughout the body. Fortunately, most cases of endometrial cancer can be cured.
Treatment of cancer of the endometrium begins with a thorough examination and medical history. A pelvic exam is also performed, and a laparoscopy may be necessary to confirm the diagnosis. The laparoscope will allow a surgeon to view internal organs and endometrial implants in the abdominal cavity. During this procedure, a sample of fluid may be taken from the abdominal cavity and sent for further investigation.
