Uterine Cancer

What is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, is one of the most common cancers found in a woman’s reproductive system. This happens when healthy cells in the uterus multiply to form a tumor, which in turn becomes malignant. The uterus is part of the female reproductive system and is where the fetus develops during pregnancy. Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer among Singaporean women. 

There are two major types of uterine cancer: adenocarcinoma and sarcoma. Adenocarcinoma makes up more than 80% of uterine cancers and it usually develops from cells in the endometrium. Sarcoma develops in the supporting tissues of the uterine glands or in the myometrium, accounting for about 2% to 4% of uterine cancers.

What are the symptoms of Uterine Cancer?

Signs and symptom of Uterine Cancer may resemble other common conditions. If you notice any unusual pain or vaginal bleeding, do seek your healthcare provider for a proper diagnosis. Some signs and symptoms you may experience include:

• Pain in the pelvic area

• Unusual vaginal bleeding between periods
• Vaginal bleeding or spotting after menopause
• Thin, white or clear vaginal discharge after menopause

What are the risk factors of Uterine Cancer?

There are several risk factors of Uterine Cancer, with most of them being related to the balance of hormones in your body. Some risk factors include:

• Age: Your risk of developing Uterine Cancer increases as you get older, with most cases happening after age 50.
• Diet high in fat: A high-fat diet can increase your risk for several different kinds of cancer. Fatty foods are also highly caloric which increases your risk of obesity.
• Family history: Some inherited genetic disorders increases your risk of certain cancers. This includes Lynch Syndrome and Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC).
• Prior medical conditions: Chronic conditions such as diabetes and obesity have been linked to an increased risk of Uterine Cancer.
• Early menstruation: If your period started before age 12, your uterus has been exposed to estrogen to a longer period of time, increasing your risk of Uterine Cancer.

How is Uterine Cancer diagnosed?

Biopsy
A biopsy may be conducted to obtain sample cells from inside your uterus for analysis.

Pelvic Examination
A pelvic examination may be conducted to check for abnormalities in your uterus.

Ultrasound
A transvaginal ultrasound may be conducted for an analysis of your uterus to check for abnormalities in your uterine lining.