What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer is also a type of cancer which originates in the uterus. Uterus is where the fertilisation and implantation as well as growth of baby take place. Endometrium is the lining of the uterus and when cells in this layer start to grow out of control, endometrial cancer is formed. Compared to all the cancers formed in the uterus, endometrial cancers are the most common type where as uterine sarcoma is relatively less frequent. Endometrial cancer however produces symptoms in the early stages since the signs are very noticeable, such as unusual and untimely bleeding from the vagina. If cancer is not spread, removal of uterus can provide complete cure from the cancer.
What are the symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?
- Abnormal untimely vaginal bleed.
- Menstrual cycle changes such as length or intensity.
- Bleeding between periods.
- Vaginal discharge is abnormal such as blood stained or watery.
- Lower abdomen or pelvis pain.
- Pain during intercourse.
Who is at risk for Endometrial Cancer?
The vast majority of Endometrial cancers, more than 95% happen in women who are above 40yrs of age. Few of the other danger factors are:
- Early onset of menstrual cycle.
- Late Menopause.
- Obesity.
- Have not had a full term pregnancy.
- Diabetic.
- High BP.
- Family history of cancers (Breast or endometrial)
- Infertility
- Irregular periods
Can Endometrial cancer be prevented?
- Hormone therapy: Hormone replacement therapy post menopause might increase your increase your risk of endometrial cancer. It could be better to get the uterus removed before any such plans.
- Oral Contraceptives: Taking birth control pills for an year might help diminish your risk for endometrial cancer for several years post the pills have stopped. However there may be few ill effects of this and talking to a specialist about it might be helpful.
- Maintain proper body weight.
What are the types of Endometrial Cancer?
Depending on the presence and outlook of cancer cells, endometrical cancer can be categorised into:
- Adenocarcinoma.
- Uterine carcinosarcoma or CS.
- Squamous cell carcinoma.
- Small cell carcinoma.
- Transitional carcinoma
- Serous carcinoma
What are the stages of endometrial cancer?
Based on the growth of the cancer, the stages are:
- Stage 1: Cancer is limited to the uterus.
- Stage 2: Cancer is now invaded the cervix as well.
- Stage 3: Cancer has spread to the other parts of the reproductive system such as ovaries or fallopian tubes but not as far as bladder.
- Stage 4: Cancer has invaded areas past the pelvic region such as rectum, bladder as well as other distant organs.
How can Endometrial cancer be diagnosed?
Certain tests can help diagnose endometrial cancer:
- Endometrial Biopsy.
- Dilatation & Curettage.
- Hysteroscopy.
- Transvaginal ultrasound.
- PET Scan
How is Endometrial Cancer treated?
Based on the stage and spread, treatment options could include:
- Surgery.
- Radiation.
- Chemotherapy.
- Hormone therapy.