Cancer Endometrium
Overview
Endometrial cancer, also known as uterine cancer, is a type of cancer that begins in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. The uterus is a hollow, muscular organ where fetal development occurs during pregnancy, and the endometrium is the tissue that thickens and sheds during the menstrual cycle. In endometrial cancer, abnormal cells in the endometrial lining begin to grow uncontrollably, forming a tumor. This cancer is the most common type of cancer affecting the uterus.
Causes of Endometrial Cancer
The exact cause of endometrial cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors may increase a woman’s likelihood of developing the condition. These include:
1.Hormonal Imbalance:
Excess estrogen without sufficient progesterone (a condition that often occurs during menopause) can stimulate the growth of endometrial cells. Prolonged exposure to estrogen increases the risk of cancer in the uterine lining.
2.Age:
Endometrial cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50, particularly after menopause. The risk increases as women age.
3.Obesity:
Overweight and obese women have higher levels of estrogen, as fat cells produce more estrogen. This increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
4.Diabetes:
Women with diabetes have a higher risk of endometrial cancer, likely due to the association between diabetes, obesity, and hormonal imbalances.
5.Menstrual History:
Women who start menstruating at an early age (before 12 years old) or who experience late menopause (after 55 years) are at higher risk due to prolonged exposure to estrogen.
6.Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT):
Long-term use of unopposed estrogen (without progesterone) for hormone replacement therapy can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. However, the risk is reduced when estrogen is combined with progesterone.
7.Family History and Genetics:
A family history of endometrial cancer, as well as certain inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome (a hereditary condition increasing the risk of several cancers), may increase a woman’s risk.
8.Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS):
Women with PCOS often have hormonal imbalances, such as excess estrogen and insufficient progesterone, which increases the risk of endometrial cancer.
Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer can present various symptoms, especially in its early stages. Some common symptoms include:
1.Abnormal Vaginal Bleeding:
The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly after menopause. Women who have already gone through menopause should immediately consult a doctor if they experience any vaginal bleeding.
For premenopausal women, irregular or heavy periods may be a sign of endometrial cancer.
2.Pelvic Pain:
Pain or discomfort in the pelvic region can occur as the tumor grows.
3.Unexplained Weight Loss:
Significant weight loss, which occurs without changes in diet or exercise, can sometimes be a symptom of endometrial cancer.
4.Pain During Sexual Intercourse:
Pain during intercourse, known as dyspareunia, may be a symptom of endometrial cancer.
5.Painful Urination or Bowel Movements:
Endometrial cancer can spread to nearby organs, causing pain during urination or bowel movements.
6.Fatigue:
Persistent tiredness or lack of energy may be an indication of endometrial cancer.
Diagnosis of Endometrial Cancer
Early detection is key to successful treatment of endometrial cancer. Several tests and procedures are used to diagnose the disease:
1.Pelvic Examination:
During a pelvic exam, a doctor will check for abnormalities in the uterus, cervix, and ovaries.
2.Ultrasound:
A transvaginal ultrasound may be used to create an image of the uterus and endometrium. If the endometrial lining appears thickened or abnormal, further investigation is required.
3.Endometrial Biopsy:
A biopsy involves taking a sample of the endometrial tissue to be examined under a microscope for cancerous cells. This is one of the most definitive ways to diagnose endometrial cancer.
4.Dilation and Curettage (D&C):
In some cases, a D&C procedure is performed to remove a sample of the endometrial tissue from the uterus for examination.
5.Hysteroscopy:
A hysteroscope (a thin, lighted tube) is inserted into the uterus through the cervix to examine the uterine lining and take tissue samples if needed.
6.CT Scan or MRI:
Imaging tests such as a CT scan or MRI may be used to check for the spread of cancer to nearby organs or lymph nodes.
Prevention of Endometrial Cancer
While it is not always possible to prevent endometrial cancer, certain lifestyle changes and risk-reducing measures can lower the likelihood of developing the disease:
1.Maintain a Healthy Weight:
Maintaining a healthy weight and engaging in regular physical activity can reduce the risk of endometrial cancer, especially for women who are postmenopausal.
2.Use of Birth Control Pills:
Using oral contraceptives (birth control pills) for a prolonged period can reduce the risk of endometrial cancer by balancing hormone levels.
3.Regular Gynecological Exams:
Women who have a higher risk of endometrial cancer (due to family history or other factors) should have regular gynecological exams and discuss possible screening options with their doctor.
4.Manage Diabetes and Hormonal Imbalances:
Properly managing diabetes and conditions like polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), which can cause hormonal imbalances, can lower the risk.
5.Prophylactic Surgery for High-Risk Women:
Women with a family history of endometrial cancer or inherited conditions like Lynch syndrome may consider preventive surgeries, such as the removal of the uterus (hysterectomy), after childbearing is complete.