A Closer Look at Uterine Cancer
As women, we are constantly advocating for our health and well-being. So let’s take a closer look at uterine cancer. We know that being proactive when it comes to our health is an important step in taking care of ourselves. One of the most common types of cancer among women in the United States is uterine cancer—a disease that affects one in 37 women in their lifetime. Let’s dive into what you need to know about this type of cancer.
What is Uterine Cancer?
Uterine cancer occurs when abnormal cells within the uterus grow out of control, forming a tumor. The uterus is located between the bladder and rectum and is the home for a developing baby during pregnancy. There are two main types of uterine cancer—endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Endometrial cancer begins in the lining of the uterus, while uterine sarcoma starts in other tissues such as muscle or connective tissue.
Risk Factors & Symptoms
The exact cause of uterine cancer remains unknown, however there are certain risk factors that may increase your chances for developing it, including obesity, being over age 50, having diabetes or a history with endometrial hyperplasia (thickening of the lining of the uterus), taking estrogen without progesterone hormone therapy after menopause, or having a family history with this type of cancer. Symptoms can include bleeding between periods or after menopause, pain during intercourse, feeling pressure in your pelvis area, and unusual vaginal discharge. If you experience any of these symptoms please talk to your doctor immediately for diagnosis and treatment options!
Treating Uterine Cancer
If detected early enough, uterine cancer can be treated successfully with surgery to remove all or part of the uterus (hysterectomy). In addition to hysterectomies, other treatments include radiation therapy (to destroy remaining cancer cells) chemotherapy (for more advanced cancers), hormone therapy (to stop hormones from feeding tumors) and targeted drug therapies (for specific cancers). Depending on each individual’s case they may receive one therapy option or multiple combined together to fight off their diagnosis.
Uterine cancer is a serious disease that affects many women each year—but don’t let fear keep you from educating yourself on this topic! By understanding your risk factors and recognizing symptoms early on you can better prepare yourself if this does become something you face in your lifetime. Don’t forget to talk to your doctor about screening options for early detection too! With proper attention and treatment this type of cancer can be beaten! You got this!
