Women's health encompasses a wide range of conditions and concerns that affect women's well-being throughout their lives. Among the many health issues women may face, uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer. To know about various ways to treat uterine cancer, including surgical interventions, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, along with emerging treatment options, Only My Health reached out to Dr Sidharth Patnaik, Sr. Consultant – Radiation Oncology, HCG Panda Cancer Hospital, Cuttak.
Causes of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer develops when abnormal cells in the lining of the uterus, called the endometrium, grow and multiply in an uncontrolled manner. The exact cause of uterine cancer is not always clear, but certain risk factors can increase a woman's likelihood of developing this condition. These risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Hormonal imbalances (such as excess oestrogen without sufficient progesterone)
- Late menopause
- Never having been pregnant
According to the Centre of Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of uterine cancer increases with age in women.
Signs and Symptoms of Uterine Cancer
It is essential to recognise the signs and symptoms that may indicate uterine cancer. The most common early warning sign is abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly post-menopause. Women experiencing irregular bleeding, such as heavy periods or bleeding between periods, should seek medical attention promptly. Other symptoms may include:
- Pelvic pain
- Difficulty or pain during urination
- Pain during intercourse.
Treatment Options
Surgery: The Cornerstone of Uterine Cancer Treatment
“Surgery is often the primary treatment for uterine cancer, especially in the early stages when the tumour is confined to the uterus. The standard surgical procedure is a hysterectomy, which involves removing the uterus and cervix”, said Dr Pattnayak. “In some cases, the surgeon may also remove the fallopian tubes and ovaries to prevent the cancer from spreading”, Dr Pattnaik added.
Radiation Therapy: Targeting Cancer Cells with Precision
In this therapy high energy beams are used to target and destroy cancer cells. It can be employed either before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumour or after surgery (adjuvant) to eliminate any remaining cancer cells. Radiation therapy is particularly useful in cases where cancer has invaded nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy: Systemic Treatment to Combat Cancer Cells
Chemotherapy is the use of strong medications to either kill or delay the growth of cancer cells. It is commonly used in cases of advanced or metastatic uterine cancer. In certain situations, chemotherapy may also be used before or after surgery to reduce the tumour size or prevent recurrence.
Hormone Therapy: Targeting Hormone-Sensitive Tumours
Some types of uterine cancer are hormone-sensitive, meaning they rely on hormones, such as oestrogen, to grow. Hormone therapy aims to block the effects of these hormones, slowing down or inhibiting cancer growth. This approach is commonly used in cases of recurrent or metastatic uterine cancer.
Targeted Therapy: Precision Treatment for Specific Genetic Changes
Targeted therapy is a relatively new treatment approach that targets specific genetic changes in cancer cells. It works by interfering with the specific molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth. Although targeted therapy is not yet widely used in uterine cancer, ongoing research is exploring its potential in treating specific subtypes of the disease.
Immunotherapy: Enhancing the Body's Immune Response
“Immunotherapy is an approach that utilises the body's immune system to fight cancer cells. While it has shown significant success in various cancers, its role in uterine cancer treatment is still being investigated. Immunotherapy may offer hope for patients with advanced or recurrent uterine cancer”, stated Dr Pattnaik.
Also read: Uterine Cancer: 7 Early Signs That One Must Know
The treatment of uterine cancer requires a wide approach, with a range of therapeutic options available to address each patient's unique condition. From surgery as the mainstay of treatment to the advancements in radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and the emerging fields of targeted therapy and immunotherapy, there is hope for improved outcomes and enhanced quality of life for women facing this disease.
