What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer starts in the endometrium, which is the inner lining of the uterus. It is the most common type of cancer affecting the female reproductive organs. It primarily affects postmenopausal women but can also occur in younger women. There are two main types:
- Type 1 (Endometrioid carcinoma): This is the most common type, typically associated with excess estrogen exposure and often linked to obesity.
- Type 2 (Non-endometrioid carcinoma): This type is less common and tends to be more aggressive.
Risk factors associated with endometrial cancer
- Hormonal Imbalance: Increased levels of estrogen without corresponding levels of progesterone can lead to the overgrowth of the endometrial lining, increasing the risk of cancer.
- Obesity: Fat tissue can convert other hormones into estrogen, raising estrogen levels in the body.
- Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after menopause.
- Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or who experience early menstruation or late menopause are at higher risk.
- Genetics: A family history of endometrial or colorectal cancer can increase the risk. Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition, also raises the risk.
- Other Factors: Diabetes, a high-fat diet, and the use of tamoxifen (a breast cancer treatment) are also associated with increased risk.
Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
Early detection of endometrial cancer is crucial, since recognizing the symptoms can lead to timely treatment. Common symptoms include:
- Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding: This is the most common symptom, especially bleeding after menopause or irregular bleeding between periods.
- Pelvic Pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic area.
- Pain During Intercourse: Painful sexual intercourse.
- Unintended Weight Loss: Sudden, unexplained weight loss can be a symptom.
Diagnosis of Endometrial Cancer
Diagnosis involves several steps:
- Medical History and Physical Examination: The doctor will take a detailed medical history and perform a pelvic examination.
- Transvaginal Ultrasound: This imaging test uses sound waves to create pictures of the uterus and can help identify abnormalities in the endometrium.
- Endometrial Biopsy: A sample of tissue is taken from the endometrium and examined under a microscope to look for cancer cells. At ALLIANCE™, experts provide analysis of endometrial biopsy samples, ensuring accurate and timely diagnosis.
- Dilation and Curettage (D&C): This procedure involves scraping tissue from the lining of the uterus for examination. ALLIANCE™ provides D&C services, offering precise tissue analysis to assist in diagnosis.
- Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube is inserted into the uterus through the vagina to allow the doctor to see the endometrium and take a biopsy.
Treatment of Endometrial Cancer
The treatment of endometrial cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:
- Surgery: The primary treatment for endometrial cancer is often a hysterectomy, which is the removal of the uterus. Depending on the stage of the cancer, the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lymph nodes may also be removed.
- Radiation Therapy: High-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors. This may be used before surgery to reduce the size of the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: This treatment involves taking hormones or hormone-blocking drugs to fight cancer. It is often used for cancers that are sensitive to hormones, particularly in advanced stages or if the cancer has spread.
- Chemotherapy: This involves using drugs to kill cancer cells. It may be used if the cancer has spread beyond the uterus or if there is a high risk of recurrence.
- Targeted Therapy: This type of treatment uses drugs or other substances to specifically attack cancer cells without harming normal cells. It is typically used in advanced or recurrent cases.
Conclusion
Endometrial cancer is a significant health concern, particularly for postmenopausal women. Understanding the risk factors, recognizing symptoms, and seeking timely medical care are crucial for effective management. With advances in medical technology and treatment options, the prognosis for endometrial cancer can be favorable, especially when detected early. Regular check-ups and awareness of the symptoms can lead to early diagnosis and successful treatment, improving outcomes for those affected by this disease.
