Uterine Cancer accounts for 2.5 percent of all the cancers in India. It is more common in western women but it is detected in women nearing 50 years of age. If women reach out to the gynecologist in time owing to its alarming signs and symptoms, this cancer can be treated completely.
Symptoms to know
Common symptoms include abnormal uterine bleeding, especially in post-menopausal females, unhealthy discharge per vaginum, pelvic pain. If you experience such signs and symptoms, reach out to your gynaecologist so as to aid in early detection and treatment.
Groups at higher risk and associated factors
It mainly affects the females from 50-60 years, who are menopausal, who ignore these symptoms, thus resulting in delay of symptoms. Risk factors – include Metabolic syndrome, obesity, diabetes, hormonal imbalance, polycystic ovarian disease, inability to have children, delaying childbirth. Family history of uterine cancer, colon or ovarian cancer also increases the risk.
Reasons behind the increasing incidence of these cancers
The lifestyle of the females like obesity, diabetes, hormonal imbalance, early age at menarche, delaying childbirth, fewer children.
Methods for prevention and early detection
Regular Screenings or visit to your gynecologists at regular intervals Maintain healthy weight: Did you know that obesity is a significant risk factor? Balanced diet and regular physical exercise and managing weight effectively.Monitor hormone levels: Hormone replacement therapy (HRT) should be used cautiously and under medical supervision.Manage medical conditions: Conditions like diabetes and polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) can also increase the risk. (Author: Dr. Monika Meena, Senior Consultant Gynae Oncologist and Robotic Surgeon Apollo Cancer Centre, Kolkata)
