Endometrial Cancer (Uterine Lining Cancer)

Endometrial Cancer: Clear Information for Women Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer that develops in the inner lining of the uterus (endometrium), one of the female reproductive organs. It is one of the most common gynecological cancers in women. It occurs particularly in the post-menopausal period; however, it can rarely be seen at younger ages. Due to its early symptom presentation, the chance of early diagnosis and treatment is quite high. How Does Endometrial Cancer Develop?

The endometrium, the tissue lining the inner surface of the uterus, thickens under the influence of hormones during each menstrual cycle and sheds if pregnancy does not occur. In some cases, an imbalance between estrogen and progesterone hormones leads to abnormal growth of the endometrium tissue. If this condition persists for a long time, changes occur in the cells and the risk of cancer increases. The most common type: Endometrioid adenocarcinoma (hormone-sensitive, presents symptoms in the early stage) Less common and more aggressive types: Serous or clear cell carcinoma Risk Factors The main factors that increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer: Post-menopausal estrogen use Obesity Menstrual irregularities or ovulation problems Never having given birth Family history (especially Lynch syndrome) Age (most cases are over 50 years old) Diabetes and hypertension Symptoms The earliest symptom is usually abnormal vaginal bleeding: Any type of bleeding after menopause Frequent, prolonged, or heavy menstrual bleeding in women who are menstruating Intermenstrual spotting or bleeding after intercourse Pelvic pain, discharge, or a feeling of fullness in the uterus Diagnostic Process Gynecological examination and transvaginal ultrasonography Endometrial thickness is measured; if it is above 5 mm postmenopausally, biopsy is recommended.

Pathological examination via endometrial biopsy or curettage If necessary, the extent of the disease spread is evaluated using MRI or CT. Treatment Methods The treatment plan is determined based on the disease stage, cell type, and the patient's overall condition: Surgical treatment: Hysterectomy and removal of the tubes and ovaries Radiotherapy: Radiation therapy Chemotherapy Hormone therapy Prognosis (Course of the Disease) When diagnosed early, treatment success is very high. 5-year survival rate in stage I patients: 90% and above Although the rate decreases in advanced stages, modern treatment methods increase life expectancy and quality of life. Prevention Methods Maintaining a healthy weight Long-term use of birth control pills as recommended by a doctor Ensuring a regular menstrual cycle Keeping diabetes and hypertension under control Seeking medical attention without delay for suspicious bleeding

References:

• Colombo N, et al. ESMO-ESGO-ESTRO Consensus Conference on Endometrial Cancer: Diagnosis, Treatment and Follow-up. Ann Oncol. 2016;27:16–41.

• American Cancer Society. Endometrial Cancer. 2023. https://www.cancer.org/cancer/endometrial-cancer.ht

• Creasman WT. Endometrial cancer: incidence, prognostic factors, diagnosis, and treatment. Semin Oncol. 2009;36:163–175.

• Siegel RL, Miller KD, Jemal A. Cancer statistics, 2023. CA Cancer J Clin. 2023;73:17–48.

• Mariani A, et al. Endometrial cancer: surgical treatment and prognostic factors. Gynecol Oncol. 2008;109:235–243.