Women’s health encompasses a diverse range of conditions and concerns that impact their well-being across their lifetimes. Among the various health challenges women may encounter, uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, stands as a significant concern. To shed light on the multiple treatment approaches for uterine cancer, including surgical interventions, radiation therapy, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy, along with emerging treatment options, Only My Health engaged in a discussion with Dr. Sidharth Patnaik, Sr. Consultant – Radiation Oncology at HCG Panda Cancer Hospital in Cuttack.
Unveiling the Causes of Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer originates from the abnormal growth of cells in the uterine lining, known as the endometrium. While the precise cause of uterine cancer is often unclear, specific risk factors heighten a woman’s susceptibility to this condition. These risk factors include:
- Obesity
- Hormonal imbalances, particularly excessive estrogen without adequate progesterone
- Late menopause
- Never having been pregnant
According to the Centre for Disease Control and Prevention, the risk of uterine cancer escalates with age among women.
Recognizing Signs and Symptoms
Being attuned to the signs and symptoms indicative of uterine cancer is crucial. Abnormal vaginal bleeding, particularly post-menopause, is a common early warning sign. Women experiencing irregular bleeding, such as heavy periods or bleeding between periods, should promptly seek medical attention. Additional symptoms may encompass:
- Pelvic pain
- Painful or challenging urination
- Discomfort during intercourse
Exploring Treatment Options
1. Surgery: The Foundation of Uterine Cancer Treatment
Dr. Patnaik highlights surgery as the primary treatment modality for uterine cancer, especially in its early stages when the tumor is confined to the uterus. The quintessential surgical procedure is a hysterectomy, which involves the removal of the uterus and cervix. In certain instances, removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries may also occur to curtail cancer spread.
2. Radiation Therapy: Precision in Targeting Cancer Cells
Radiation therapy employs high-energy beams to target and eliminate cancer cells. It can be employed before surgery (neoadjuvant) to shrink the tumor or after surgery (adjuvant) to eradicate any residual cancer cells. Radiation therapy proves beneficial when cancer invades nearby tissues or lymph nodes.
3. Chemotherapy: A Systemic Approach to Combat Cancer Cells
Chemotherapy employs potent medications to kill or slow the growth of cancer cells. It is frequently used for advanced or metastatic uterine cancer. In specific cases, chemotherapy may be administered before or after surgery to reduce tumor size or prevent recurrence.
4. Hormone Therapy: Targeting Hormone-Sensitive Tumors
Certain uterine cancers depend on hormones, such as estrogen, for their growth. Hormone therapy aims to impede the effects of these hormones, slowing or inhibiting cancer growth. This strategy is particularly effective for recurrent or metastatic uterine cancer.
5. Targeted Therapy: Precision Treatment for Genetic Changes
Targeted therapy, a newer approach, targets specific genetic alterations in cancer cells. It disrupts molecules or pathways involved in cancer growth. Although not yet widely employed in uterine cancer treatment, ongoing research explores its potential for specific disease subtypes.
6. Immunotherapy: Amplifying the Body’s Immune Response
Dr. Patnaik highlights immunotherapy’s utilization of the body’s immune system to combat cancer cells. While its success is evident in diverse cancers, its role in uterine cancer treatment remains under investigation. Immunotherapy holds promise for advanced or recurrent uterine cancer cases.
Empowering Women’s Health through Advancements
The spectrum of uterine cancer treatment employs a comprehensive approach, offering a variety of therapeutic avenues tailored to each patient’s unique condition. From surgery as the cornerstone to the evolution of radiation therapy, chemotherapy, hormone therapy, and the emerging frontiers of targeted therapy and immunotherapy, there is optimism for enhanced outcomes and an improved quality of life for women confronting uterine cancer.
