Uterine cancer, also commonly known as endometrial cancer, is characterized by severe malignancy in the cells of the endometrium, the tissue lining the uterus. Uterine cancer generally occurs in women who have reached menopause, although it can occur in women at any age, and is the most common form of cancer of a woman's reproduction system. Uterine cancer is generally characterized by severe bleeding through the vagina in between the menstrual periods or after menopause, hence making it easy to detect and treated early.
Causes of Uterine Cancer
According to the Mayo Clinic, obesity, irregular ovulation, diabetes, age and ovarian tumors are considered major risk factors for endometrial cancer. These conditions usually result in an increase in the level of estrogen, one of the hormones produced by the ovaries, which increases the risk of developing uterine cancer. However, the exact reason for this increased risk is not yet known.
Other Common Causes of Uterine Cancer
Various other common causes such as hereditary, race of an individual and medication such as tamoxifen are also considered to be prime factors leading to the development of uterine cancer. It has been found that 1 in every 500 women who were prescribed with drugs like tamoxifen for treating breast cancer are at a greater risk of developing uterine cancer. In addition, black women are at a greater risk of death due to uterine cancer.
Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
Some of the most common symptoms that are associated with uterine cancer include pain near the pelvic region, excessive weight loss, non-bloody discharge from the vagina, and bleeding even after reaching menopause.
Treatment Methods
Surgery is the most common treatment used to cure women suffering from uterine cancer. If detected in the early stages, doctors generally recommend surgical removal of the uterus to prevent the further spreading of the cancer to other body parts. Other common treatment methods are radiation therapy and hormone balance therapy.
Prevention/Solution
Certain preventive steps such as following a regular exercise regime and maintaining a healthy diet and weight are often recommended by doctors. This will help maintain healthy hormonal levels in the body, and thus help in preventing uterine cancer.
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