Uterine cancer is known to be the fourth most common cancer following breast, lung, and colorectal cancers. Symptoms include abnormal uterine bleeding, which is a key indicator, along with unusual vaginal discharge and pain in the lower abdomen. It can also cause a sensation of pressure in the abdomen and general discomfort. Early diagnosis and timely treatment are crucial for favorable outcomes. If abnormal bleeding occurs, it’s essential to undergo a medical examination and necessary tests.
What is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women. The risk of developing cancer in the lining of the uterus is approximately 1 in 40 for women. This cancer originates from the cells of the endometrial lining of the uterus and is notably a type of cancer that can be detected early.
Regular medical check-ups play a significant role in early detection. Routine examinations can identify the disease at an early stage, allowing for prompt treatment. With early diagnosis, the chances of successful treatment increase considerably.
Causes of Uterine Cancer
Factors contributing to uterine cancer include having multiple births, engaging in sexual activity at an early age, having numerous sexual partners, and smoking. These factors are recognized as contributing risks for the development of uterine cancer.
Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
A significant proportion of women diagnosed with uterine cancer experience bleeding during menopause. In women who have not yet reached menopause, the condition can lead to menstrual irregularities. However, these symptoms can also be attributed to other non-cancerous causes, making a medical examination necessary to determine the root cause. Any bleeding during menopause, regardless of volume, should be taken seriously.
Other symptoms include unusual vaginal discharge that is dark-colored or has an unpleasant odor, pain or a feeling of pressure in the pelvic region, pain during sexual intercourse, weight loss, and loss of appetite. These symptoms should not be ignored, as they can be indicative of uterine cancer.
How is Uterine Cancer Diagnosed?
Uterine cancer diagnosis involves pelvic examination, ultrasound, and endometrial biopsy. The most significant sign of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. The diagnosis process begins with a physical exam, followed by imaging tests and, if necessary, a biopsy. Hysteroscopy is particularly useful for examining abnormal vaginal bleeding. During hysteroscopy, a thin telescope is inserted into the uterus, and the uterine cavity is filled with saline solution to identify any issues causing the bleeding.
Stages of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer progresses through three main stages:
- Stage 1: The cancer is limited to the body of the uterus, although it may sometimes extend to the cervical glandular tissue.
- Stage 2: The cancer spreads from the uterus to the supportive connective tissues of the cervix. However, it has not yet spread to distant areas.
- Stage 3: The cancer extends beyond the uterus, affecting nearby tissues within the pelvic region.
How is Uterine Cancer Treated?
The primary treatment for uterine cancer is surgery. The procedure generally involves the removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries. After the surgery, pathological analysis is performed to assess the extent of the disease. This comprehensive approach aims to completely remove the cancer from the patient’s body.
You can find more information on uterine abnormalities for further understanding.
