Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that affects the lining of the uterus. It is the fourth most common cancer in women and is usually diagnosed in women over the age of 50. However, it can occur in younger women.

The good news is that endometrial cancer is usually detected early and is often curable.

Causes and Risk Factors

The exact cause of endometrial cancer is unknown, but there are several risk factors that increase a woman’s chances of developing the disease. These include:.

1. Hormones

Women who have high levels of estrogen and low levels of progesterone may be at a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer. This is because estrogen stimulates the growth of the lining of the uterus, while progesterone helps to prevent this growth.

2. Obesity

Obesity is a major risk factor for endometrial cancer because fat cells produce estrogen. Women who are overweight or obese are more likely to have high levels of estrogen, which can increase their risk of developing the disease.

3. Diabetes

Women with type 2 diabetes may be at a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer because insulin resistance can lead to high levels of insulin in the body.

High levels of insulin can stimulate the growth of the lining of the uterus, which can increase the risk of endometrial cancer.

4. Family History

Women with a family history of endometrial cancer may be at a higher risk of developing the disease themselves. This is because some cases of endometrial cancer are caused by inherited gene mutations.

Symptoms

The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. This can include:.

1. Bleeding between periods

2. Bleeding after menopause

3. Heavier periods than normal

4. Longer periods than normal

5. Bleeding during or after sex

Other symptoms of endometrial cancer can include pelvic pain, pain during sex, and a watery or bloody vaginal discharge.

Diagnosis

If you are experiencing any symptoms of endometrial cancer, you should see your doctor as soon as possible. Your doctor will usually perform a pelvic exam, and may also order one or more of the following tests:.

1. Transvaginal Ultrasound

During this test, a small wand is inserted into the vagina. The wand emits sound waves, which create a picture of the uterus on a computer screen.

2. Endometrial Biopsy

During this test, a small tissue sample is taken from the lining of the uterus. The tissue is then examined under a microscope for the presence of cancer cells.

Related Article 5 Warning Signs of Endometrial Cancer Women Should Be Aware Of

3. Imaging Tests

Imaging tests such as a CT scan, MRI, or PET scan may be ordered to determine the extent of the cancer.

Treatment

If you are diagnosed with endometrial cancer, your treatment plan will depend on several factors, including the stage of the cancer, your age, and your overall health. The two most common treatments for endometrial cancer are:.

1. Surgery

Surgery is often the first treatment for endometrial cancer.

The type of surgery you have will depend on the stage of the cancer, but may include a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) or a bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the uterus, cervix, fallopian tubes, and ovaries).

2. Radiation Therapy

Radiation therapy uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells. It may be used before surgery to shrink the tumor or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.

Prevention

There are several things women can do to help prevent endometrial cancer, including:.

1. Maintain a Healthy Weight

Obesity is a major risk factor for endometrial cancer, so women should strive to maintain a healthy weight through diet and exercise.

2. Use Birth Control

Using birth control can help regulate hormone levels and reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

3. Get Regular Exercise

Exercise has been shown to reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including endometrial cancer.

4. Eat a Healthy Diet

A healthy diet that is rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

Conclusion

Endometrial cancer is a common type of cancer in women, but it is often detected early and is usually curable.

Women can take steps to reduce their risk of developing the disease, including maintaining a healthy weight, using birth control, getting regular exercise, and eating a healthy diet. If you are experiencing any symptoms of endometrial cancer, you should see your doctor as soon as possible.