About Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer can have various causes and risk factors.
- Uterine cancer occurs when there is an abnormal growth of cells in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium.
- The exact cause of uterine cancer is still unknown, but certain factors can increase a person's risk of developing it.
Non-modifiable risk factors of uterine cancer are factors that cannot be changed. They include:
- Age over 50: Uterine cancer is more common in people over the age of 50.
- Family history: Having a family history of uterine or other related cancers can increase the risk.
- Race: Black people may have a greater risk of uterine cancer than white people, partially due to healthcare inequities.
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS): This hormonal disorder can increase the risk of uterine cancer.
- Type 2 diabetes: People with type 2 diabetes may have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer.
- History of breast or ovarian cancer: Individuals with a history of breast or ovarian cancer may be at an increased risk.
Modifiable risk factors of uterine cancer are factors that can be influenced or changed. They include:
- Hormone changes: Imbalances in estrogen and progesterone levels can increase the risk of uterine cancer. Conditions that increase estrogen but not progesterone can also raise the risk.
- Menstruation years: Starting menstruation early or going through menopause later may increase the risk.
- Never being pregnant: Multiple pregnancies may help protect against uterine cancer.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Some types of HRT containing estrogen but not progesterone can raise the risk.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of developing uterine cancer.
- Sedentary lifestyle: Lack of physical activity is associated with a higher risk.
It's important to note that having these risk factors does not guarantee that someone will develop uterine cancer. Likewise, some individuals without these risk factors may still develop the disease. Regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare professionals can help identify and manage potential risks.
The most common early symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal uterine bleeding. This may include bleeding that occurs after menopause, bleeding between periods, or heavier and more irregular bleeding than what is typical for your period.
As uterine cancer progresses or becomes more severe, other symptoms may occur:
- Unusual vaginal discharge
- Abdominal or pelvic pain
- A mass in your abdomen or pelvis that you can feel
- A feeling of fullness or pressure in your pelvis (specific to uterine sarcoma)
- Changes in bowel or bladder habits, such as constipation or frequent and painful urination
- Unintended weight loss
- Reduced appetite
It's important to note that many of these symptoms can have benign causes, such as infection. However, if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are new, frequent, or persistent, it's important to seek medical advice for an assessment. A medical professional will be able to evaluate your symptoms and provide a proper diagnosis.
To diagnose uterine cancer, doctors may use a combination of examinations, tests, and procedures. Some of the common ones include:
- Pelvic examination: A doctor examines the pelvic area to check for any abnormalities or signs of uterine cancer.
- Ultrasound: This test uses sound waves to create images of the uterus and can help detect any tumors or abnormal growths.
- Endometrial biopsy: A small sample of tissue from the lining of the uterus is taken and examined under a microscope to check for cancer cells.
- Dilation and curettage (D&C): This procedure involves dilating the cervix and scraping tissue from the lining of the uterus. The tissue is then examined for cancer cells.
- Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube called a hysteroscope is inserted through the vagina and cervix into the uterus. This allows the doctor to visually examine the inside of the uterus for any abnormalities.
In addition to these tests, doctors may also order additional examinations, tests, and procedures to determine the stage or severity of uterine cancer. These may include:
- Imaging tests: X-rays, CT scans, PET scans, and MRI scans can provide detailed images of the uterus and surrounding areas. These tests can help determine if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body.
- Blood tests: Certain blood markers may be elevated in cases of uterine cancer. Blood tests can help assess these markers and provide additional information about the cancer.
- Cystoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin tube with a camera into the bladder to check for any signs of cancer spread.
- Proctoscopy: A similar procedure to cystoscopy, but it involves examining the rectum for signs of cancer spread.
It's important to note that not everyone will undergo all these tests. The specific examinations, tests, and procedures recommended by your doctor will depend on your symptoms, risk factors, and medical history. They will tailor their recommendations based on your individual situation.
The goals of treatment for uterine cancer are to remove or destroy the cancerous cells to prevent the cancer from spreading or coming back. The specific treatment options and strategies depend on the stage and grade of the cancer.
Here are the different types of treatments and how they work to achieve the treatment goals for uterine cancer:
- Surgery: The most common treatment for uterine cancer is a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus. During surgery, the surgeon may also remove the fallopian tubes, ovaries, and lymph nodes for testing. This helps determine if the cancer has spread beyond the uterus.
- Radiation Therapy: This therapy uses high-energy radiation, such as X-rays, to kill cancer cells or prevent them from growing. Doctors may recommend radiation therapy after surgery to reduce the chances of cancer returning. It can also be used before surgery to shrink a tumor and make it easier to remove.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses drugs to stop the growth of cancer cells by either killing them or preventing them from dividing. It can be used after surgery to help prevent cancer recurrence. It may also be used before surgery to shrink a tumor or treat advanced cancer that has spread beyond the uterus.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy lowers hormone levels in the body, which can kill cancer cells that rely on hormones to grow. This type of therapy is used when uterine cancer is hormone-sensitive.
- Targeted Drug Therapy: Targeted therapy uses drugs that specifically target molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells. This treatment aims to identify and attack specific cancer cells. Targeted drug therapy is often combined with chemotherapy to treat advanced uterine cancer.
In addition to these treatments, there are other supportive care options that can help manage symptoms and improve quality of life:
- Palliative Care: Palliative care focuses on relieving symptoms and improving a person's quality of life. It may involve treatments such as radiation therapy and chemotherapy to shrink tumors or relieve pain.
- Supportive Care: Supportive care includes physical therapy, occupational therapy, and counseling to provide support during treatment.
It's important to note that alternative treatments such as herbal supplements, acupuncture, and dietary changes are not recommended as sole treatments for uterine cancer. There is limited scientific evidence supporting their effectiveness, so it's crucial to consult a healthcare professional before starting any alternative treatment.
Overall, a combination of surgery, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted drug therapy, palliative care, and supportive care can be used to achieve the treatment goals for uterine cancer. The specific treatment plan will depend on individual factors such as stage and grade of the cancer.
Medication dosing may be affected by many factors. Check with your health care professional about dosing for your individual situation. Other side effects can occur. Check with your health care professional or read the information provided with your medication for additional side effect information.
Over time, uterine cancer can progress and spread to other parts of the body if left untreated. The natural progression of uterine cancer involves the growth and spread of cancer cells within the uterus and potentially to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
Complications that commonly occur with uterine cancer include:
- Anemia due to blood loss: Uterine cancer can cause abnormal bleeding, leading to a decrease in red blood cells and resulting in anemia.
- Perforation of the uterus: During certain procedures like a D&C (dilation and curettage) or endometrial biopsy, there is a risk of unintentional perforation or creating a hole in the uterus.
- Problems from treatment: Surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy are common treatments for uterine cancer. These treatments may have their own set of complications, such as infection, pain, fatigue, or side effects from medications.
It is crucial to consult a healthcare professional for advice and diagnosis if you experience symptoms or suspect uterine cancer.