Uterine Cancer - Recognizing postmenopausal bleeding

Unusual vaginal bleeding is a crucial health signal. Understanding the early signs of uterine cancer empowers you to seek timely medical advice, which is key to a better outcome. Don't delay—your awareness is your best protection.

What are the main causes of Uterine Cancer?

• What is uterine cancer? It's cancer that begins in the uterus, with the most common type, endometrial cancer, starting in the uterine lining.
• The cause is often linked to high levels of estrogen, influenced by factors like obesity, diabetes, and some hormone therapies.
• Other risk factors include a family history of uterine or colon cancer, a personal history of PCOS, and being of an older age.

Key symptoms of Uterine Cancer to watch for

• The most common symptom is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially any postmenopausal bleeding, which is a significant red flag requiring medical attention.
• Other signs include pelvic pain or pressure, pain during intercourse, and an unusual, watery, or blood-tinged vaginal discharge.
• As the cancer progresses through its stages, you might also experience unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or difficulty with urination.

How is Uterine Cancer treated and prevented?

• Prevention includes maintaining a healthy weight and discussing the risks of certain hormone therapies with your doctor.
• Standard uterine cancer treatment is often a hysterectomy (surgical removal of the uterus), which can be curative in early stages.
• Depending on the cancer stage, additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy may be used to improve the uterine cancer survival rate.

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Image of Stages of Endometrial Cancer

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Because symptoms often appear early, the uterine cancer survival rate is high when diagnosed promptly. If you have unusual bleeding, see a gynecologist.

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