Uterine cancers

Uterine cancers are malignancies that develop in the uterus, the organ in which foetal development occurs during pregnancy. The two main types of uterine cancer are endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma.

Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer, originating in the endometrium, the inner lining of the uterus. It accounts for over 90% of uterine cancer cases. This cancer typically affects postmenopausal women and often presents with abnormal vaginal bleeding, which is an early warning sign. Risk factors include obesity, hormone replacement therapy (particularly estrogen without progesterone), early onset of menstruation, late menopause, and a history of polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Additionally, women with a family history of Lynch syndrome, a genetic condition, are at higher risk.

Uterine sarcoma, on the other hand, is much rarer, accounting for less than 5% of these cancers. This type develops in the muscle or connective tissue of the uterus (the myometrium). Uterine sarcomas are typically more aggressive than endometrial cancers and may present with symptoms like pelvic pain, a noticeable mass in the pelvis, or unusual bleeding. Risk factors include prior pelvic radiation and the use of certain medications, such as tamoxifen, a drug used to treat breast cancer.

Diagnosis of uterine cancers generally involves pelvic examinations, imaging tests such as ultrasound or MRI, and a biopsy of the uterine lining. The stage of cancer is determined by how far it has spread, with treatment options varying accordingly.

Treatment for uterine cancers often involves surgery, particularly a hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), sometimes combined with removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Depending on the stage, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy may also be recommended. Early detection and treatment typically lead to better outcomes, especially for endometrial cancer.