What is Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer starts in the lining of the uterus, known as the endometrium. The incidence of endometrial cancer has been rising both in India and globally over the past few years.
Treatment Process
Diagnosis
Diagnosis involves a combination of pelvic examination, imaging (such as ultrasound, MRI, or CT scans), and biopsy.
Surgery
Surgical options vary depending on the type and stage of cancer. Procedures may include hysterectomy (removal of the uterus), lymphadenectomy (removal of lymph nodes) and other relevant procedures.
Radiation Therapy
May be used in conjunction with surgery depending on the type, stage and molecular profile of endometrial cancer, radiation therapy helps to kill remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. This may be in the form of vaginal brachytherapy and/or extended field radiotherapy.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy may be used before surgery to shrink tumors or after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
These treatments are used for specific types of gynecologic cancers, particularly in advanced stages.
Follow-Up Care
Regular follow-up appointments are essential to monitor for recurrence and manage any side effects of treatment.
Popular Questions
Most common symptom is post menopausal bleeding. It may also present with abnormal vaginal discharge, foul smelling discharge per vagina, heaviness in lower abdomen.
Staging is based on the extent of cancer spread, ranging from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (spread to distant organs).
Risk factors include age, obesity, diabetes, infertility, and a family history of gynecologic cancers.
There is no effective screening test for endometrial cancer in the general population. Only those with a genetic risk can be closely monitored. Endometrial cancer is a lifestyle related disease and maintaining a healthy lifestyle can help reduce the risk of developing endometrial cancer.
Most endometrial cancers are detected at an early stage and have good prognosis. Prognosis depends on the type of endometrial cancer, its molecular profile, stage at diagnosis and the success of the initial treatment.
Many new research studies have shown survival benefits of immunotherapy esp. in MMR deficient cases. Many trials are ongoing for treatment based on molecular profile of endometrial cancer.
Endometrial cancers may run in families along with colon, breast and ovarian cancers. Genetic testing can help in identifying patients with Lynch syndrome and those in need of close monitoring.
Providing emotional support, helping with daily tasks, and accompanying them to medical appointments can be very helpful.
Common Myths
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1.Myth : Endometrial cancer and uterine cancer are the same.
Fact: Endometrial cancer is a type of uterine cancer that starts in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). Uterine cancer can also refer to cancers that start in other parts of the uterus (e.g., sarcoma arising from the wall of the uterus).
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2.Myth : Only postmenopausal women get endometrial cancer.
Fact: While endometrial cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, it can also occur in younger women, especially those with risk factors such as obesity, infertility, or polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and a family history of endometrial/colon cancer.
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3.Myth : Endometrial cancer is always fatal.
Fact: Endometrial cancer is often detected early and is highly treatable. The prognosis is generally good, especially when diagnosed at an early stage.
Dr. Neha Agarwal's Expertise in Kolkata
Dr. Neha Agarwal, a renowned expert in endometrial cancer based in Kolkata, offers exceptional management of the disease. With extensive training and experience, she delivers comprehensive care, including precise diagnosis, advanced surgical techniques, and personalized treatment plans. Her compassionate approach ensures that patients receive the highest quality care and support throughout their treatment journey.
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