Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is the third most common cancer affecting the female reproductive system after ovarian and cervical cancer. It is often curable when detected early.

In this comprehensive guide, we will discuss the causes, symptoms, types, diagnosis, treatment, and prevention of uterine cancer.

Causes of Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer develops when the cells in the lining of the uterus grow abnormally and form a tumor.

Although the exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown, there are certain risk factors that increase a woman’s chance of developing the disease, including:.

Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese have an increased risk of uterine cancer because fat tissue produces estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of the uterine lining.
Hormonal imbalances: An imbalance between estrogen and progesterone can also increase the risk of uterine cancer.
Age: The risk of uterine cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over the age of 50.
Family history: Women with a family history of uterine, ovarian, or colon cancer have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer.
Endometrial hyperplasia: This is a condition in which the uterine lining becomes too thick, and it can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer.
Tamoxifen: This drug is used to treat breast cancer, but it can increase the risk of uterine cancer.

Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding, which may include:.

Heavy periods
Irregular periods
Bleeding between periods
Bleeding after menopause

Other symptoms of uterine cancer may include:.

Pelvic pain or pressure
Pain during sexual intercourse
Abdominal swelling or bloating
Loss of appetite or weight loss

Types of Uterine Cancer

There are two main types of uterine cancer:.

Endometrial carcinoma: This is the most common type of uterine cancer, and it develops in the cells of the uterine lining.
Sarcoma: This is a rare type of uterine cancer that develops in the muscle or supporting tissue of the uterus.

Diagnosis of Uterine Cancer

If you experience any symptoms of uterine cancer, your doctor may perform a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, and order tests to diagnose the disease. These tests may include:.

Transvaginal ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and ovaries.
Endometrial biopsy: This involves removing a small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus to be examined under a microscope.
Hysteroscopy: This involves inserting a thin, lighted tube into the uterus to examine the lining.
Dilation and curettage (D&C): This involves removing tissue from the uterus for examination.

Treatment of Uterine Cancer

The treatment for uterine cancer depends on the stage of the disease and other factors, such as age and general health. The most common treatments for uterine cancer include:.

Surgery: This involves removing the uterus and ovaries to eliminate the cancer.
Radiation therapy: This uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells.
Chemotherapy: This uses drugs to kill cancer cells.
Hormone therapy: This may be used to reduce the amount of estrogen in the body, which can slow the growth of the cancer.

Prevention of Uterine Cancer

Although there is no guaranteed way to prevent uterine cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk, such as:.

Maintain a healthy weight: This can reduce the amount of estrogen in your body.
Exercise regularly: This can also reduce the amount of estrogen in your body.
Control diabetes: This can reduce the risk of developing endometrial hyperplasia.
Use birth control: Oral contraceptives can reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
Get regular pelvic exams: This can help detect any abnormalities in your reproductive system early.

Conclusion

Uterine cancer is a common type of cancer affecting women. Although the exact cause of uterine cancer is unknown, there are certain risk factors that increase a woman’s chance of developing the disease.

If you experience any symptoms of uterine cancer, it’s important to see a doctor for diagnosis and treatment. By taking steps to reduce your risk of uterine cancer, you can maintain your overall health and well-being.