Uterine Cancer (Endometrial Cancer) Treatment in Noida, Delhi, India
Overview
Uterine cancer, often referred to as endometrial cancer, originates in the lining of the uterus (endometrium). It is one of the most prevalent types of cancer affecting the female reproductive system. While endometrial cancer is the most common type, other forms, such as uterine sarcomas, which develop in the muscle or connective tissue of the uterus, are rarer but more aggressive.
Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
Early detection of uterine cancer is crucial, and it is often possible due to noticeable symptoms, which may include:
- Vaginal bleeding after menopause: This is one of the most common early signs.
- Bleeding between periods: Unusual bleeding patterns can be an indicator.
- Abnormal discharge: A watery or blood-tinged discharge may occur.
- Pelvic pain: Persistent pelvic discomfort or pain should not be ignored.
Due to the presence of these symptoms, many women seek medical advice early, leading to timely diagnosis and treatment. If detected at an early stage, endometrial cancer is often curable through surgical intervention.
Risk Factors for Uterine Cancer
Several factors may contribute to an increased risk of developing uterine cancer, including:
- Age: The risk increases as women age, particularly after menopause.
- Hyperestrogenic States: Conditions that lead to an excess of estrogen without a corresponding rise in progesterone, such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and diabetes, can elevate the risk.
- Early Menstruation and Late Menopause: Extended exposure to estrogen due to early menstruation or late menopause increases the likelihood of endometrial cancer.
- Nulliparity: Women who have never been pregnant are at a higher risk of developing uterine cancer compared to those who have had at least one pregnancy.
- Obesity: Excess body fat leads to higher estrogen levels, increasing the risk of endometrial cancer.
- Hormone Therapy for Breast Cancer: The use of tamoxifen, a drug used in breast cancer treatment, is associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
- Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC): This inherited syndrome heightens the risk of several cancers, including endometrial cancer.
Uterine Cancer Diagnosis
To diagnose uterine cancer, healthcare providers may use several tests, including:
- Pelvic Exam: A physical examination conducted to identify any abnormalities in the reproductive organs.
- Imaging Tests: Ultrasound or MRI may be used to visualize the uterus.
- Biopsy: A sample of endometrial tissue is taken for laboratory analysis to confirm the presence of cancer cells.
Treatment for Uterine Cancer
The treatment approach for uterine cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer. Common treatments include:
- Hysterectomy: The most common treatment involves the surgical removal of the uterus. Depending on the case, this procedure may also include the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and lymph nodes (sentinel lymph node excision or complete lymphadenectomy).
- Adjuvant Therapy: Following surgery, some patients may require additional treatments such as radiation therapy or chemotherapy to target any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence. The need for these treatments is determined on a case-by-case basis, taking into account the cancer’s stage and the patient’s overall health.
Metro Cancer Institute in Delhi, India, offers state-of-the-art facilities and a multidisciplinary team of experts specializing in the diagnosis and treatment of uterine cancer. With advanced technologies and personalized care plans, patients receive the most effective treatment options tailored to their specific needs.