What Is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer refers to any cancer that develops in the uterus. The uterus is a muscular organ in the female reproductive system that is responsible for carrying and nourishing the fetus during pregnancy. It can occur in different parts of the uterus, including the endometrium (the inner lining of the uterus) and the myometrium (the muscular wall of the uterus).
Endometrial cancer is a type of uterine cancer that develops in the endometrium. It is the most common form and sometimes, the terms “uterine cancer” and “endometrial cancer” are used interchangeably. Another type of is uterine sarcoma. It is a rare form of uterine cancer that grows within the uterine muscles or other tissues that support the uterus.
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Uterine Cancer Statistics In Singapore
According to the Singapore Cancer Registry Annual Report 2021, uterine cancer is the 4th most common cancer affecting women in Singapore. It is also the 9th cause of frequent cancer deaths among females from 2017 to 2021.
Who Is Affected By Uterine Cancer?
It primarily affects postmenopausal women, with the majority of cases occurring in women over the age of 50. However, younger women may also be affected, particularly those with certain risk factors such as obesity, a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or a family history of uterine or other related cancers.
Symptoms And Causes
Symptoms
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or spotting.
- Postmenopausal bleeding.
- Pelvic pain or discomfort.
- Pain during intercourse.
- Unexplained weight loss.
Causes
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly an excess of oestrogen.
- Genetic mutations in the endometrial cells.
- Lifestyle factors such as obesity and a high-fat diet.
- Prolonged use of oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy.
Medical Conditions That Increase Uterine Cancer Risk
Certain medical conditions can increase the risk of developing this cancer, including:
- Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
- Diabetes.
- Lynch syndrome (a genetic condition associated with an increased risk of various cancers).
- A history of endometrial hyperplasia (thickening of the uterine lining).
Diagnosis And Tests
Diagnosis typically involves a combination of the following tests:
- Pelvic examination: A physical examination to check for abnormalities.
- Ultrasound: A transvaginal ultrasound to assess the thickness of the uterine lining.
- Endometrial biopsy: A procedure to collect a tissue sample from the uterine lining for laboratory analysis.
- Hysteroscopy: A minimally invasive procedure to examine the inside of the uterus.
Stages
It is categorised into four stages:
- Stage I: Cancer is confined to the uterus.
- Stage II: Cancer has spread to the cervix but remains within the pelvic area.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread beyond the uterus and cervix to nearby lymph nodes or other pelvic organs.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the lungs or liver.
Treatment
Treatment options depend on the stage and severity of the condition. Common treatments include:
- Surgery: A hysterectomy (removal of the uterus) is often the primary treatment.
- Radiation therapy: Used to destroy cancer cells or reduce the risk of recurrence.
- Chemotherapy: Administered to kill cancer cells, especially in advanced stages.
- Hormone therapy: Used to block hormones that fuel cancer growth.
Prevention
While it is not always possible to prevent this type of cancer, certain measures can reduce the risk:
- Maintaining a healthy weight.
- Managing conditions such as diabetes and PCOS.
- Using a combination of oestrogen and progesterone in hormone replacement therapy.
- Regular medical check-ups for early detection.
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FAQs
Can uterine cancer be detected early?
Yes, it can be often detected early due to symptoms like abnormal vaginal bleeding. Regular medical check-ups can aid in early detection.
Is uterine cancer hereditary?
While most cases are not hereditary, conditions like Lynch syndrome can increase the risk of uterine cancer.
Can uterine cancer occur in women who have had a hysterectomy?
Women who have had a partial hysterectomy may still be at risk if the uterus was not entirely removed. A total hysterectomy eliminates this risk.
How effective is treatment?
Treatment is highly effective, especially when the cancer is detected in its early stages. The prognosis varies depending on the stage at diagnosis.
Are there any lifestyle changes that can help prevent uterine cancer?
Yes, maintaining a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and avoiding prolonged use of oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy can help reduce the risk.
Related Articles On Health365
- Women’s Cancers – Risks, Symptoms And Treatment In Singapore
- Breast Cancer
- Cervical Cancer
- Ovarian Cancer
- Uterine Cancer
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This article is informative only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, and should never be relied upon for specific medical advice.