Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, originates in the cells of the lining of the uterus. It is one of the most common gynecologic cancers, but early detection and proper treatment can lead to significant survival rates.

Data of interest

Uterine cancer is the 6th most common cancer in women worldwide.
In 2020, there were more than 417,000 new cases of uterine cancer and more than 97,000 women died from the disease worldwide.
Uterine cancer is the most common type of gynecological cancer in high-income countries.
Uterine cancer occurs most often in women over 45 years of age, although it can affect younger women.
The cause of the rapid increase in the incidence of uterine cancers is presumed to be increasing risk factors, including high and rising rates of obesity and changes in reproductive trends, such as having fewer children and delaying childbirth until later in life.

Source: https://igcs.org/uterine/

Symptoms of uterine cancer

It is essential to be aware of the possible symptoms of uterine cancer, as early detection can make a difference in treatment and outcome. Here are some of the most common symptoms:

Abnormal vaginal bleeding

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. This can include bleeding between menstrual periods, bleeding after menopause, or excessive or prolonged menstrual bleeding. If you experience any unusual vaginal bleeding, it is important to discuss it with your gynecologist.
Pelvic pain

Some women may experience persistent pain or discomfort in the pelvic region. This pain may be dull or sharp and may be accompanied by a feeling of pressure or discomfort.
Changes in menstrual pattern

Pay attention to significant changes in your menstrual cycle, such as alterations in the length or regularity of your usual menstrual periods. If you notice drastic changes in your menstrual pattern, it is important to talk to your specialist.
Difficulty urinating

In advanced cases, uterine cancer can put pressure on the bladder, which may result in difficulty urinating or a sensation of incomplete bladder emptying.
Unexplained weight loss and fatigue

In some cases, uterine cancer can cause unexplained weight loss and persistent fatigue.

However, it is worth mentioning that these symptoms can be caused by other non-cancerous conditions, so it is important not to panic, but to seek medical evaluation to rule out any serious problems.

Prevention and risk reduction

While absolute prevention of uterine cancer cannot be guaranteed, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk and promote overall healthy living. Here are some key recommendations:

Maintain a healthy weight: Obesity is associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer. Maintaining a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise can help reduce this risk.
Be physically active on a regular basis: Regular physical activity is not only beneficial to your overall health, but can also reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
Maintain a healthy diet: A balanced and nutritious diet can help reduce the risk of uterine cancer. Prioritize high-fiber foods, fruits, vegetables and whole grains, and limit consumption of processed foods, saturated fats and added sugars.
Have regular gynecological check-ups: Regular gynecological check-ups are essential to detect any abnormalities in the uterus.
Monitor your hormone levels: Some hormone therapies, such as hormone replacement therapy, may increase the risk of uterine cancer. If you are considering any form of hormone therapy, talk to your doctor about the specific benefits and risks to make an informed decision.

Take care of yourself and your gynecological health! With knowledge, prevention and adequate medical attention, you can be one step ahead in the fight against uterine cancer. If you require specialized medical assistance, remember that in Panama Cancer Clinic, we have specialists who can advise you and accompany you in your process.