A doctor’s prognosis is the opinion of the physician about how long the cancer will survive and spread. It is based on several factors, including the type of cancer, stage, and age. Early-stage endometrial cancers have very good survival rates, but once it progresses, treatment options become limited and the cancer has a higher chance of coming back. Early detection is critical for early diagnosis and treatment.
A woman’s risk of developing cancer endometrial is increased by several factors. Among these factors are poor diet and an unhealthy lifestyle. Also, genetic changes increase the risk of the disease. Cancer is most likely to be detected early, so women with unusual discharge should see a doctor. The doctor will feel the cervix, uterus, vagina, and labia, among other things. If they feel any of these characteristics, the doctor will perform a physical exam to rule out any conditions.
Another risk factor is obesity. Women who are overweight are twice as likely to develop this cancer as women who do not have obesity. Body fat is a factor in endometrial cancer, and it affects estrogen levels. Excess fat converts androgens into estrogen. Type 2 diabetes also increases the risk. In women with a family history of endometrial cancer, obesity increases the risk of this disease.
The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. While normal vaginal bleeding is a common symptom of endometrial cancer, it may be an early sign of a more serious condition. A physician should be consulted if abnormal bleeding persists or continues. He may also recommend that a woman undergo hormone therapy to treat menopausal symptoms. This type of hormone therapy may increase the risk of endometrial cancer.
Another treatment option for endometrial cancer involves chemotherapy. This treatment aims to kill cancer cells. The drugs are administered slowly through an IV or drip. Hormone therapy drugs can also be used to stop the hormones that fuel the cancer. In some cases, cancer may spread beyond the endometrium, and patients may need surgery to remove the entire uterus and cervix. There are several types of chemotherapy available, and most patients can expect at least one treatment option.
In some women, the symptoms of endometrial cancer can include irregular bleeding or a lump in the pelvis. These symptoms may be very painful, and in some cases, the disease may not be detected until after the symptoms are apparent. Cancer specialists will usually recommend surgical removal of the uterus if the symptoms are severe. If the cancer is found in the uterus, chemotherapy and radiation may be necessary.