Uterine cancer is one of the most common cancers affecting women worldwide. According to World Health Organization (WHO) data, cancer remains a leading cause of death globally, and uterine cancer ranks among the most frequently diagnosed gynecologic cancers. In many countries, it is the fourth most common cancer in women.

Uterine cancer most commonly begins in the inner lining of the uterus (the endometrium) and is therefore often referred to as endometrial cancer. When detected early, uterine cancer is highly treatable and may be completely cured.

What Is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer develops when cells in the uterus grow uncontrollably and form a tumor. There are two main types:

Endometrial Cancer (Carcinoma)

• Originates from the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus
• Most common type
• Frequently diagnosed after menopause
• Often detected early due to abnormal bleeding

Uterine Sarcoma

• Originates from the myometrium, the muscular layer of the uterus
• Less common
• Typically more aggressive
• More difficult to treat

Endometrial cancer accounts for the majority of uterine cancer cases.

How Does Endometrial Cancer Develop?

The endometrium is the layer where a fertilized egg implants and pregnancy develops. During reproductive years, the hormones estrogen and progesterone regulate the monthly thickening and shedding of this lining.

Each month:

• Estrogen stimulates the endometrium to thicken
• Progesterone balances this effect
• If pregnancy does not occur, the lining is shed during menstruation

When there is prolonged exposure to estrogen without sufficient progesterone balance, the endometrial cells may begin to grow excessively. Over time, uncontrolled proliferation can lead to tumor formation.

If untreated, cancer may:

• Spread to deeper layers of the uterus
• Extend to ovaries or fallopian tubes
• Spread to lymph nodes
• Metastasize to distant organs such as the lungs

What Causes Uterine (Endometrial) Cancer?

The exact cause of uterine cancer is not fully understood. However, hormonal imbalance, especially prolonged estrogen dominance, is believed to play a key role.

Increased risk is associated with:

• Long-term exposure to estrogen
• Estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy
• Conditions that cause irregular ovulation

What Are the Symptoms of Uterine Cancer?

The most common symptom of uterine cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding.

In Postmenopausal Women:

Any vaginal bleeding after menopause is considered abnormal and should be evaluated immediately.

In Premenopausal Women:

• Irregular menstrual bleeding
• Bleeding between periods
• Unusually heavy menstrual bleeding

Other possible symptoms may include:

• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Unexplained weight loss
• Vaginal discharge

Symptoms may vary depending on the stage and whether the cancer has spread.

What Are the Risk Factors for Uterine Cancer?

Having one or more risk factors does not mean a woman will develop uterine cancer, but risk increases under certain conditions.

Age

Most cases are diagnosed in women over 55. Risk increases with age.

Obesity

Obesity increases the risk 2–4 times due to increased estrogen production from fat tissue.

Early Menstruation

Starting menstruation before age 12 increases lifetime estrogen exposure.

Late Menopause

Menopause after age 50 extends estrogen exposure.

Estrogen-Only Therapy

Hormone therapy without progesterone increases risk.

Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS)

Chronic ovulation disorders increase estrogen exposure.

Family History of Cancer

Especially multiple first-degree relatives with related cancers.

When Should You See a Doctor?

You should consult a doctor immediately if you experience:

• Any bleeding after menopause
• Persistent irregular bleeding
• Unexplained pelvic pain

Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment success.

How Is Uterine Cancer Diagnosed?

Ultrasound

Transvaginal ultrasound evaluates endometrial thickness and structure.

Endometrial Biopsy

A thin tube is used to collect tissue from the uterine lining. This procedure usually does not require anesthesia.

Dilation and Curettage (D&C)

If biopsy is insufficient, D&C may be performed under anesthesia to collect a larger sample.

Diagnosis is confirmed through pathological examination.

If cancer is confirmed, additional imaging and testing are performed to determine the stage.

What Are the Stages of Uterine Cancer?

Stage I

Cancer confined to the uterus.

Stage II

Cancer has spread to the cervix.

Stage III

Spread to fallopian tubes, ovaries, vagina, or nearby lymph nodes.

Stage IV

Spread to bladder, colon, or distant organs such as lungs.

How Is Uterine Cancer Treated?

Treatment depends on:

• Stage of cancer
• Age
• Overall health
• Fertility wishes

Surgery

Primary treatment. Hysterectomy (removal of uterus and cervix) is performed. Ovaries are often removed. Lymph nodes may also be removed.

Minimally invasive methods such as laparoscopy or robotic surgery may be used.

Radiotherapy

May be recommended after surgery to reduce recurrence risk or for patients unsuitable for surgery.

Chemotherapy

Typically used in advanced stages (Stage III–IV) or recurrence.

Hormone Therapy

High-dose progesterone may be used in selected early-stage patients who wish to preserve fertility. Close monitoring is essential.

Can Uterine Cancer Be Prevented?

Complete prevention is not possible, but risk can be reduced by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing obesity
• Treating ovulation disorders
• Managing PCOS
• Regular gynecologic examinations
• Prompt evaluation of abnormal bleeding

Obesity-related hormonal imbalance is one of the most significant modifiable risk factors.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQ)

What is the most common symptom of uterine cancer?

Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially bleeding after menopause.

Is uterine cancer the same as cervical cancer?

No. Uterine cancer usually refers to endometrial cancer, which starts in the lining of the uterus, while cervical cancer begins in the cervix.

Can uterine cancer be cured?

Yes, especially when diagnosed early. Early-stage uterine cancer has a high treatment success rate.

Does uterine cancer always cause pain?

No. Many women experience no pain in early stages. Abnormal bleeding is usually the first sign.

Who is most at risk for uterine cancer?

Women over 55, women with obesity, hormonal imbalance, PCOS, or prolonged estrogen exposure.

How fast does uterine cancer spread?

Growth rate varies depending on type. Endometrial cancer often progresses slowly and is detected early due to bleeding.

For any questions, you can contact us at 444 39 49.