Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the uterus (womb). There are two types of uterine cancers: endometrial cancer and cervical cancer. Endometrial cancer occurs in the lining of the uterus, while cervical cancer starts in the cells that line the cervix. Both types of uterine cancer are linked to certain risk factors, including age, obesity, hormone use, and genetics. If you have any of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about screening tests.
Uterine Cancer Symptoms:
The uterus is a hollow muscular organ located in the
pelvis between the bladder and the rectum. It is responsible for storing sperm
and eggs before they are released at ovulation. A woman’s reproductive system
consists of her vagina, cervix, uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and breasts.
The breast is a glandular organ that produces milk after giving birth. The
uterus is a small pear-shaped organ about the size of a peach. It lies just
below the pelvic bone and above the womb.
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Uterine Cancer Causes:
Cancer of the uterus is called uterine cancer. The
cancer starts in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). The endometrium is a
thin layer of tissue that covers the inner wall of the uterus. It thickens
during menstruation and sheds off each month. If the cells in the endometrium
become damaged, abnormal changes may occur. These changes may cause the
endometrium to become inflamed or irritated. In some cases, these changes may
lead to precancerous conditions.
Risk Factors:
Risk factors
are things that increase your chances of developing uterine cancer. Having risk
factors doesn't mean you'll definitely develop uterine cancer; however, they do
make it more likely. In general, women who are older than 40 years old are at
higher risk of uterine cancer. Other risk factors include having had abnormal
Pap smears, being overweight or obese, using birth control pills, not getting
regular checkups, and having never been pregnant.
Screening
Tests:
Screening
tests help doctors find early-stage disease before symptoms appear. Screenings
may include blood tests, pelvic exams, and imaging scans. Your doctor may
recommend different screenings based on your personal situation. Talk to your
doctor about what screening tests you need and how often you should get them.
Treatment Options:
Treatment options depend on the stage of uterine cancer and whether it's spread outside the uterus. Treatments may include surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, or hormonal treatments. Hormone therapies are the most effective treatment for uterine cancer. However, some people choose to avoid hormone therapies because of side effects.
Prevention:
Prevention
involves taking steps to reduce your chance of developing uterine cancer,
including avoiding known risk factors. You can also take steps to lower your
risk of uterine cancer, such as eating a balanced diet, exercising regularly,
quitting smoking, and maintaining a healthy weight.