Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer)

Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Cancer)
Endometrial cancer, commonly known as uterine cancer, occurs when cells in the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) undergo abnormal changes, multiplying rapidly without the usual cell death cycle. This uncontrolled growth can lead to tumour formation and, if untreated, may spread to other areas.

Symptoms
If you experience any of the following symptoms, it is essential to consult a healthcare provider, as these may indicate endometrial cancer or other health issues:

🌸 Post-menopausal bleeding (bleeding after menopause)
🌸 Bleeding between periods
🌸 Pelvic pain or discomfort
🌸 Pain during sexual intercourse
🌸 Pain or difficulty when passing urine

Causes
The exact cause of endometrial cancer remains unknown. However, certain risk factors can increase the likelihood of its development.

Risk Factors

• Hormonal Imbalance: Elevated levels of oestrogen unbalanced by progesterone can increase risk.
  • Obesity: Higher oestrogen levels stored in body fat can disrupt hormone balance.
  • Diabetes: Related to both obesity and insulin resistance, which can affect hormone levels.
  • PCOS (Polycystic Ovary Syndrome): A hormonal disorder that often results in excess oestrogen.
  • Hormone Replacement Therapy: Taking oestrogen without progesterone increases risk.
• Never Having Been Pregnant: Pregnancy increases progesterone, which helps balance oestrogen.
• Older Age: Risk increases after age 50.
• Tamoxifen Use: This breast cancer treatment drug can increase endometrial cancer risk.
• Inherited Lynch Syndrome: A genetic condition that increases the risk of several cancers, including endometrial. Lynch syndrome is caused by gene mutations that affect the body’s ability to repair DNA errors.

Diagnosis
Early diagnosis is key to effective treatment. The following tests may be used to identify endometrial cancer:

• Pelvic Ultrasound: Helps visualize the uterus and detect abnormalities.
• Pap Smear: Occasionally, endometrial cells may appear on a Pap test, though this test primarily screens for cervical cancer.
• Endometrial Biopsy: A small tissue sample is taken from the endometrium for examination, confirming the presence of cancer cells.
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Management and Treatment
Treatment options depend on the cancer’s stage and overall health of the patient. It’s essential to discuss with a healthcare provider, as management may include surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, or a combination of these treatments. Early detection can often lead to more effective treatment options and better outcomes.

 
Additional Notes

Regular check-ups and being attentive to unusual symptoms are vital, especially for individuals with higher risk factors.
Maintaining a healthy weight, managing diabetes, and consulting with healthcare providers on hormone therapies can help manage risk.

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