Endometrial (Uterine Lining) Cancer - Bahçeci

Endometrial (Uterine Lining) Cancer

What is Endometrial Cancer and How Does It Develop?

Endometrial cancer is the most common type of cancer in the female reproductive system, occurring in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. Although the exact cause is not known, the risk of endometrial cancer increases when the hormone estrogen in the body is not balanced by the hormone progesterone. Especially during menopause, as ovulation and menstrual cycles decrease, this balance is disrupted, leading to an increased risk of cancer.

Conditions that can cause unopposed estrogen levels include:

  • Obesity
  • History of infertility
  • Late onset of menopause
  • Polycystic ovary syndrome
  • Long-term use of estrogen alone

Other Factors Increasing the Risk of Endometrial Cancer:

  • Radiation exposure to the pelvic area
  • High blood pressure and diabetes
  • Early onset of menstruation
  • History of breast or ovarian cancer
  • Endometrial cancer is more commonly seen in women who are sexually inactive, childless, or have few children.

What Are the Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer?

 

The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding, which is the first sign in 90% of cases. In younger women, symptoms may include increased heaviness of menstrual bleeding, bleeding between periods, or bleeding after intercourse.

How is Endometrial Cancer Diagnosed?

Your doctor will first perform a gynecological examination to determine the size of your uterus and will conduct a smear test. If there is a suspicion of endometrial cancer, a sample (endometrial biopsy) will be taken from the uterus and sent for pathological examination. This procedure involves very thin instruments and is usually quick and minimally painful.

Another method involves dilating the cervix with special instruments and taking a sample from the uterus through curettage. Local or general anesthesia is used during this procedure. There may be some vaginal bleeding and discomfort for a few days after curettage. Sometimes, this procedure is performed to reduce severe vaginal bleeding.

 

Your doctor may also request various blood and urine tests, as well as a chest X-ray. Blood tests can reveal the presence of anemia and diabetes, or whether the disease has spread to the liver and kidneys. A chest X-ray is important for detecting metastasis.

How is Endometrial Cancer Treated?

Early diagnosis and treatment of endometrial cancer are crucial for preventing the spread to other organs. When diagnosed early, surgical removal of the uterus, fallopian tubes, ovaries, and surrounding lymph nodes can provide a complete cure.

 

Endometrial cancer is classified based on the stage of the disease and the type of cells (grade). In advanced stages, radiotherapy and chemotherapy may be necessary in addition to surgical treatment. With early diagnosis and treatment, 80% of patients live more than five years.

How Can I Reduce My Risk of Endometrial Cancer?

 

If you are at risk for this cancer, in addition to paying attention to your overall health, you should regularly undergo gynecological examinations. Early diagnosis is very important in the treatment of endometrial cancer.

How Can I Prevent Endometrial Cancer?

Since the exact cause is not known, it is not possible to guarantee complete prevention. However, you can reduce your risk with the following recommendations:

  • Avoid consuming animal fats.
  • Maintain a healthy diet, keep your weight in check, and exercise.
  • Reduce stress to control your blood pressure and avoid a high-salt diet.
  • Report any abnormal vaginal bleeding to your doctor immediately.
  • Get a smear test annually.
  • If you are receiving menopause treatment, attend check-ups as frequently as recommended by your doctor.

2024 All rights reserved.

Endometrial (Uterine Lining) Cancer

Let Us Call You

Phone numbers

    Or you can reach us at +90549 821 92 04.

    Back
    Whatsapp
    Let Us Call You
    Call Us

      Or you can reach us at +90549 821 92 04.