Endometrial cancer is predominantly a disease of the urban population. Although not in India, endometrial cancer is the most common gynecological cancer in the US. It is a disease of the post-menopausal age group with peak onset in the early seventh decade. However, in 20% of cases, pre-menopausal women are affected by this cancer. In this article, the Best Oncologists and Robotic Cancer Surgeons share information on the symptoms, causes, and treatment of endometriotic cancer.
Symptoms
The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is post-menopausal bleeding. Apart from this other presentations include vaginal discharge, abnormal Pap smear, and increased endometrial thickness on routine ultrasound. Abdominal pain, pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, fullness, loss of weight, and loss of appetite are usually late symptoms and indicate the extra uterine spread of cancer.
Causes
Endometrial cancer is a manifestation of over estrogenic state, and hence factors influencing over-production and over-exposure of estrogen, such as early menarche, late menopause, nulliparity, estrogen-only pills, and tamoxifen usage in postmenopausal women are associated with increased incidence of endometrium cancer. Other causes include noninsulin-dependent diabetes mellitus, hypertension, central obesity, etc.
Treatment
Treatment for endometrial cancer typically involves surgery to remove the cancerous tissue, followed often by chemotherapy or radiation therapy. In some cases, hormonal therapy may also be recommended to help prevent cancer from returning.
Robotic surgery is a minimally invasive surgical technique that can be used to remove cancerous tissue. During robotic surgery, the surgeon uses a robotic system to control miniature instruments that are inserted through small incisions in the abdomen. This approach offers several advantages over traditional open surgery, including increased surgical precision, less pain, less blood loss, less hospital stay, scarless surgery, and a faster recovery time.
Conclusion
Endometrial cancer is a rare but serious form of cancer. If you experience any symptoms of endometrial cancer, it is important to speak with a healthcare professional and preferably an oncologist as soon as possible.