Uterine Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, Types & Tests

Uterine cancer is among the most common gynecological cancers affecting women worldwide. It occurs when abnormal cells begin to grow uncontrollably in the tissues of the uterus, particularly in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. While uterine cancer is more commonly diagnosed in postmenopausal women, it can also affect younger women, especially those with certain risk factors. With early detection and appropriate treatment, the prognosis for many women with uterine cancer can be favorable. Awareness of symptoms, risk factors, and timely medical consultation plays a crucial role in early diagnosis and better outcomes.

Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer refers to malignant growth originating in the tissues of the uterus, most often in the endometrial lining. The uterus, a pear-shaped organ in the female reproductive system, plays an essential role during pregnancy. When cancer develops here, it can interfere with reproductive functions and potentially spread to other parts of the body if untreated.

The two most common types of uterine cancer are:

• Endometrial cancer: Originates in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). This accounts for about 90% of all uterine cancers.
• Uterine sarcoma: A rarer and more aggressive type that starts in the muscles or other tissues of the uterus.

While endometrial cancer typically grows slowly and shows early warning signs, uterine sarcoma can be harder to detect and treat.

Causes of Uterine Cancer

Like many cancers, the exact cause of uterine cancer is not always clear, but certain risk factors significantly increase the likelihood of developing it:

• Hormonal imbalance: Excessive exposure to estrogen without enough progesterone increases risk. This can occur with obesity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), or hormone replacement therapy.
• Age: Most cases occur in women aged 50 and older, particularly after menopause.
• Obesity: Higher body fat raises estrogen levels, which can stimulate abnormal cell growth in the uterus.
• Family history: A family history of uterine or colorectal cancer, especially linked to Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer).
• Diabetes: Often associated with obesity and hormonal changes.
• Early menstruation or late menopause: Longer lifetime exposure to estrogen.
• Never having been pregnant: Pregnancy naturally reduces estrogen exposure during life.
• Certain medications: Long-term use of tamoxifen for breast cancer may increase risk.

While having one or more risk factors doesn’t guarantee developing uterine cancer, it significantly raises the chance.

Symptoms of Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer often presents with noticeable symptoms, particularly in its early stages. Common signs include:

• Abnormal vaginal bleeding: The most frequent symptom, including bleeding after menopause, heavy menstrual bleeding, or bleeding between periods.
• Pelvic pain or pressure: Discomfort or a sense of fullness.
• Unusual vaginal discharge: Especially if watery, pink, or foul-smelling.
• Pain during intercourse: Can indicate deeper problems in uterine tissues.
• Unexplained weight loss: Occurs in more advanced stages.
• Difficulty or pain while urinating: May result from cancer spreading to nearby tissues.

Any unusual bleeding, particularly after menopause, should prompt immediate medical evaluation.

Types of Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer is mainly classified into two types:

1. Endometrial Cancer:

• The most common type.
• Often diagnosed early because it usually causes noticeable symptoms like bleeding.
• Further subtyped into:
  • Type I (endometrioid): Linked to excess estrogen and typically slower growing.
  • Type II (non-endometrioid): Includes serous carcinoma and clear cell carcinoma, often more aggressive and unrelated to hormonal causes.

2. Uterine Sarcoma:

• Much rarer and more aggressive.
• Develops in the muscles (myometrium) or supporting tissues.
• Includes subtypes like leiomyosarcoma and endometrial stromal sarcoma.

The type and stage of uterine cancer significantly impact treatment choices and prognosis.

Tests Used to Detect Uterine Cancer

Several diagnostic tests help confirm uterine cancer and determine its type and stage:

• Pelvic examination: A gynecologist checks for abnormalities in the uterus and other pelvic organs.
• Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS): Uses sound waves to measure endometrial thickness and detect masses.
• Endometrial biopsy: A small sample of endometrial tissue is taken and examined under a microscope.
• Hysteroscopy: A thin, lighted tube is inserted into the uterus to look for abnormalities and guide biopsy.
• Dilation and curettage (D&C): Performed if biopsy samples are inconclusive; a larger sample of tissue is removed for analysis.
• Imaging tests:
  • CT scan or MRI: To assess cancer spread beyond the uterus.
  • PET scan: Sometimes used to detect metastases.

Early detection significantly improves treatment success and survival rates.

Conclusion

Uterine cancer, though common, is often detected early thanks to clear warning signs like abnormal bleeding. Recognizing risk factors—such as obesity, hormonal imbalances, and family history—and staying vigilant about changes in menstrual patterns can save lives. While most cases occur after menopause, younger women with risk factors should also remain cautious. Modern diagnostics, including biopsies and imaging, help identify the cancer type and guide treatment plans, which may involve surgery, radiation, hormone therapy, or chemotherapy. Advances in research and awareness efforts continue to improve survival and quality of life for patients with uterine cancer. Ultimately, knowledge and timely action remain powerful tools against uterine cancer. Women are encouraged to attend regular gynecological check-ups, maintain a healthy lifestyle, and consult a doctor promptly for unusual bleeding or pelvic discomfort.

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

1. What is uterine cancer?
Uterine cancer is a disease where abnormal cells grow uncontrollably in the uterus, often in its lining (endometrium).

2. Who is at highest risk for uterine cancer?
Postmenopausal women, those with obesity, hormonal imbalances, or a family history, especially related to Lynch syndrome.

3. What is the most common symptom of uterine cancer?
Abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially bleeding after menopause.

4. Can uterine cancer be cured?
If detected early, uterine cancer often has a good prognosis and may be cured with surgery and other treatments.

5. How is uterine cancer diagnosed?
Through pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasound, endometrial biopsy, and sometimes imaging tests like CT or MRI.

6. Is uterine cancer always linked to hormones?
Most endometrial cancers are hormone-related, but some aggressive subtypes are not.

7. At what age does uterine cancer usually occur?
Most cases are diagnosed in women aged 50 and older, but younger women can also develop it.

8. What lifestyle changes help reduce the risk?
Maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, managing diabetes, and avoiding unnecessary hormone therapy.