Signs of a malignant tumor of the uterus - first manifestations, symptoms, diagnosis, stages and treatment. Cancer of the uterus

Oncological diseases of the uterus are today among the most common pathologies in women; according to statistics, doctors record about 600 thousand new cases every year in the world. Most often, the disease is diagnosed in the age group of 35-55 years, later - in very rare cases. Malignant processes of this localization have a high mortality rate, so all women should know the symptoms and signs of uterine cancer, this will allow timely action to be taken and avoid irreparable consequences.

Uterus and development of malignant process

The uterus is the most important component of the reproductive system. It is a hollow smooth muscle organ, unpaired, pear-shaped, in women of childbearing age with an average length of 5 to 9 cm. According to its structure, the uterus itself is divided into sections: the cervix, body and fundus; and its wall consists of three layers: perimetry, myometrium and endometrium (internal mucous membrane of the organ).

The appearance of symptoms and signs of uterine cancer occurs as a result of mutation of endometrial cells that begin uncontrolled abnormal division, leading to the appearance of a tumor. Along with the growth of the tumor, the process of spreading of malignant cells begins, first through the lymph nodes, then through the blood vessels to vital organs (kidneys, liver, lungs).

Symptoms and signs of cancer depend on the extent of the pathological disease. Conventionally, according to the size of the tumor and the affected area, the process is divided into four stages:

Damage to other organs leads to disruption of their work and the vital functions of the entire organism, because malignant cells displace healthy ones, but, due to their immaturity, are not able to perform their functions. The development of a malignant process irreversibly leads to death if the first signs and symptoms characteristic of uterine cancer are not detected in a timely manner and special treatment is not started.

Manifestation of the disease in the initial stages

The oncological process is characterized by a long asymptomatic course, so signs of uterine cancer in the early stages are observed infrequently, all of them are subtle and erased. The growth of the tumor leads to the appearance of certain changes in the body, which should signal the need for an unscheduled visit to the gynecologist.

The first symptoms of early stage uterine cancer include vaginal discharge (leucorrhoea). They can be watery, white, mucous, interspersed with blood, odorless or, conversely, foul-smelling. The retention of leucorrhoea in the vagina leads to the development of inflammatory processes and the addition of infections, which is manifested in the appearance of purulent discharge with a characteristic odor.

A woman should be alerted to the appearance of contact bleeding. They can appear during sex, after intercourse, during douching, after lifting weights. Particular attention should be paid if spotting appears during menopause. An abnormal phenomenon is considered to be heavy bleeding, single or multiple, lasting 10-12 days, painful, especially when bleeding occurs in postmenopause.

The development of cancer may be indicated by the appearance of discomfort, irritation (not associated with allergic reactions), changes in the skin of the labia and itching. In addition, tumor processes in the organ lead to painful sensations during sexual intercourse.

The initial signs and symptoms of uterine cancer include deterioration in general condition, weakness, and decreased performance.

Manifestation of the disease in late stages

The signs of uterine cancer become more pronounced in the later stages of the oncological process. The transition of malignant cells to nearby lymph nodes is accompanied by an increase in their size and the appearance of pain in their area.

Severe pain in the affected area appears already at the 4th stage of the process, because There are practically no nerve endings directly in the organ. The process of metastasis affects the nerve plexuses of the sacral region, accompanied by back pain.

Damage to the urinary system is manifested by problems with urination (frequency or difficulty emptying), as well as pain and the appearance of blood in the urine. Violation often leads to ascites (formation of dropsy in the abdominal cavity) and an increase in the volume of the abdomen. Fluid retention in the body and compression of the pelvic lymph nodes leads to swelling of the lower extremities.

Heavy vaginal discharge remains a characteristic symptom of uterine cancer, but in the later stages it is accompanied by a fetid, putrid odor.

In advanced stages of oncology of this localization, changes in the condition of the breast are often observed (the mammary gland is part of the reproductive system and reacts to pathological processes in its other organs). A woman may notice changes in shape, soreness, and discharge from the nipples during the non-lactation period.

Symptoms and signs of the last stage of uterine cancer include the following changes:

causeless weight loss;
loss of appetite;
temperature increase;
indigestion (constipation, diarrhea);
development of anemia.

Carefully! Often women, even with third-stage uterine cancer, retain an absolutely healthy, blooming appearance (this is noticeable in the photos of many patients); serious changes begin to progress at the very last, fourth stage.

Dangerous disease and causes of its occurrence

Most women today are concerned with the question of what reasons can cause the development of an abnormal, life-threatening process? This problem is being actively studied by doctors all over the world; there is no final conclusion about the causes of cell mutation, but the most likely and dangerous factors that can lead to the disease are:

infertility;
too early onset of the first menstruation;
late onset of menopause;
absence of childbirth;
tumor processes in the ovaries that produce estrogen;
previous endometrial hyperplasia;
obesity (fat tissue provokes estrogen synthesis);
consequences of hormone therapy in the treatment of breast cancer;
metabolic disorders, diabetes mellitus;
precancerous conditions (ulcers, scars, polyps, endocervicitis, condylomas, etc.);
Lynch syndrome (formerly known as nonpolyposis colon cancer). This is a hereditary pathology that increases the risk of developing cancer in other organs, including the uterus.

Diagnostic examination methods

The attending physician will be able to diagnose this pathology and determine which treatment methods will be most effective based on the results of a comprehensive examination, including:

Laboratory tests (smear, blood, urine) are also carried out; depending on the patient’s condition, consultation with specialized specialists may be necessary to select a treatment method.

Disease treatment program

If a localized malignant tumor is detected at an early stage of the disease, patients are prescribed hysterectomy (organ resection). If the neoplasm has begun to grow and has affected adjacent tissues, then the fallopian tubes, ovaries, upper part of the vagina, and nearby lymph nodes are removed. To increase the effectiveness of treatment and reduce the risk of relapse, patients are prescribed: radiotherapy before surgery, chemotherapy after.

The inclusion of hormone therapy (Tamoxifen, Progestin) in the treatment program is due to the need to suppress the activity of estrogens and progesterone, which contribute to the growth of a cancerous tumor. If surgery is contraindicated for the patient, a treatment program is drawn up by combining radiotherapy with a course of hormone therapy.

In Israel today they use the latest cancer treatment method - targeted therapy. It differs from chemotherapy and radiotherapy in that it affects only mutated, malignant cells, stopping their growth and development, and does not have a negative effect on healthy tissues and organs. Judging by the reviews of patients on the forums, this treatment method is easier to tolerate and has virtually no side effects.

Attention! Cancer is one of the most dangerous diseases; it is impossible to stop it with folk remedies! Only special medical techniques can help.

It is difficult to speak definitively about how long cancer survivors live. All prognosis for recovery depend on the stage of the disease, the chosen technique and the general condition of the woman’s body. After treatment of oncology in the early stages with tumor removal, the five-year survival rate exceeds 80%; if the process progresses to the fourth stage, the favorable prognosis decreases to 10-15%, but there are still chances.

Uterine cancer is a common malignant neoplasm of the uterine body in women. It is also called endometrial cancer

Uterine cancer occupies 1st place in the structure of female oncological diseases of the reproductive system, cervical cancer ranks 2nd. Among all female malignant tumors, endometrial cancer is second only to breast cancer.

Uterine cancer most often affects women after menopause (over 50 years of age), with the peak incidence observed in women aged 65-69 years. Approximately 5-6% of cancer cases in women are uterine cancer. The most common symptom of endometrial cancer is the appearance of bloody discharge from the vagina outside of menstruation, which should always be a reason to consult a gynecologist.

In most cases, uterine cancer begins in the cells that make up the inner lining of the uterus - the endometrium, which is why uterine cancer is often called endometrial cancer. Less commonly, a malignant tumor forms from the muscle tissue of the uterus. This tumor is called a uterine sarcoma, and its treatment may differ from that of endometrial cancer. This article mainly describes endometrial cancer.

The exact cause of uterine cancer is unclear, but there are factors that may increase your risk of developing the disease. One of them is hormonal imbalance. In particular, the risk of developing uterine cancer increases with increasing levels of the hormone estrogen in the body. Hormonal imbalance can be caused by a number of reasons, including menopause, obesity, diabetes and hormone replacement therapy. The risk of developing uterine cancer also increases slightly with long-term use of a breast cancer drug called tamoxifen.

Symptoms of uterine cancer

The first signs of uterine cancer are watery leucorrhoea and bloody discharge from the vagina outside of menstruation. Gradually, the discharge becomes more abundant, more reminiscent of uterine bleeding. As a rule, any bloody vaginal discharge in menopausal women is suspicious for cancerous changes.

Possible signs of uterine cancer in women of reproductive age are:

heavier periods than usual;
vaginal bleeding between periods.

More rare symptoms of endometrial cancer may include pain in the lower abdomen and discomfort during sexual intercourse.

If the cancer reaches an advanced stage, it may manifest itself as:

pain in the back, legs or pelvic area;
lack of appetite;
fatigue;
nausea and general malaise.

Vaginal leucorrhoea, and especially bloody discharge not associated with menstruation, should be a reason for mandatory consultation with a gynecologist. These symptoms are characteristic of many diseases: polyps or fibroids of the uterus, sexually transmitted infections, cancer of the uterus and other parts of the female reproductive system.

Causes and risk factors for uterine cancer

The body is made up of millions of different cells. Cancer develops when some of them begin to multiply indefinitely, forming a voluminous neoplasm - a tumor. A malignant tumor can affect any part of the body where a failure occurs in the system regulating cell division and growth.

Cancer of the uterine body is prone to rapid growth and spread to neighboring organs and tissues. Typically, cancer cells spread throughout the body through the lymphatic or circulatory system. The lymphatic system is a collection of nodes and channels distributed throughout the body and interconnected like the circulatory system. Through lymphatic and blood vessels, tumor cells can spread to any part of the body, including bones, blood and organs. This is called metastasis.

Factors that increase the risk of developing uterine cancer:

Age. The risk of developing uterine cancer increases with age; in most cases, the disease is diagnosed in women over 50 years of age.
Estrogen. The risk of developing uterine cancer is related to the level of estrogen in the body. This is one of the hormones that regulate the female reproductive system. Estrogen stimulates the release of the egg from the ovary, the division and growth of endometrial cells. Progesterone prepares the lining of the uterus to receive an egg from the ovary. Normally, estrogen levels are kept in check by progesterone. But the hormonal balance in the body can be disrupted. For example, after menopause, the body stops producing progesterone but still produces small amounts of estrogen. This estrogen causes endometrial cells to divide, which can increase the risk of developing uterine cancer.
Hormone replacement therapy. Because of the link between estrogen and uterine cancer, estrogen hormone replacement therapy should only be given to women who have had their uterus removed. In other cases, a combination of estrogen and progesterone must be given to reduce the risk of uterine cancer.
Overweight or obesity. Since estrogen can be produced by fat tissue, being overweight or obese increases estrogen levels in the body. This significantly increases the risk of developing uterine cancer. The risk of developing uterine cancer in overweight women is 3 times higher than in women of normal weight. In case of obesity, it is 6 times higher than in women with normal weight. Therefore, it is important to know how to calculate body mass index.
Lack of childbirth. Women who have not given birth are at higher risk of developing uterine cancer. This may be because the increase in progesterone and decrease in estrogen during pregnancy protects the lining of the uterus.
Tamoxifen. Women who have taken tamoxifen (a hormonal drug to treat breast cancer) may have an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. However, the benefits of tamoxifen treatment outweigh this risk.
Diabetes. Women with diabetes are twice as likely to develop uterine cancer than others. Diabetes increases insulin levels in the body, which in turn can stimulate estrogen production.
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS). Women with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) are more susceptible to developing uterine cancer because they have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies. In women with PCOS, cysts form on the ovaries, which can cause symptoms such as irregular or light periods, amenorrhea, as well as problems conceiving, obesity, acne and excess hair growth (hirsutism).
Endometrial hyperplasia. Endometrial hyperplasia is a thickening of the lining of the uterus. Women with this condition have an increased risk of developing uterine cancer.

Diagnosis of uterine cancer

The primary diagnosis of uterine cancer is carried out by a gynecologist. He performs a gynecological examination and may perform a number of other tests if necessary. If you suspect uterine cancer, your gynecologist will refer you for a consultation with a gynecologist-oncologist, who you can select by clicking on the link. In addition, additional tests and examinations will be required.

Blood for tumor markers.

To diagnose uterine cancer, a blood test is sometimes performed because the cancer releases certain chemicals into the blood, called tumor markers.

However, the results of blood tests for tumor markers are not always accurate and reliable. The presence of tumor markers in the blood does not mean for sure that you have uterine cancer, and in some women with uterine cancer, these substances are not found in the blood.

Transvaginal ultrasound

You may also have a transvaginal ultrasound (ultrasound). This is a type of diagnosis that uses a small scanning device in the form of a probe. It is inserted into the vagina to obtain a detailed image of the inside of the uterus. This procedure may be slightly uncomfortable, but is usually not painful.

Transvaginal ultrasound can detect thickening of the uterine mucosa, which may indicate the presence of a cancerous tumor.

Uterine biopsy

If a transvaginal ultrasound shows thickening of the uterine walls, you will most likely be prescribed a biopsy to clarify the diagnosis. A biopsy involves taking a small sample of cells from the lining of the uterus (endometrium). This sample is then tested in a laboratory for the presence of cancer cells.

A biopsy is performed in various ways:

aspiration biopsy - a small flexible tube is inserted into the uterus through the vagina, which absorbs endometrial cells;
hysteroscopy with biopsy - a small optical device is inserted into the uterus through the vagina, with which the doctor can examine the uterine mucosa and use a special surgical instrument to take a tissue sample from a suspicious area of the mucosa.

As a rule, if uterine cancer is suspected, complete removal of the endometrium is performed during hysteroscopy - curettage. This is a simple surgical procedure performed under general anesthesia. The removed tissue is then sent to a laboratory for analysis.

Additional studies for uterine cancer

To determine the stage of cancer, tumor size, the presence of metastases (daughter tumors) and develop optimal treatment tactics, additional studies are prescribed:

a chest X-ray to check if the cancer has spread to the lungs;
magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) to identify metastases and clarify the size of the tumor;
computed tomography (CT) scan, which uses a series of X-rays to create a detailed image of the inside of the body to check whether the cancer has spread to other organs;
additional blood tests to check the general condition of the body and the functioning of certain organs.

Stages of uterine cancer

There are the following stages of endometrial cancer:

stage 1- tumor within the body of the uterus;
stage 2- cancer has spread to the cervix;
stage 3- the neoplasm has spread beyond the uterus, damaging the surrounding tissues or lymph nodes;
stage 4- The cancer has spread to the soft tissue of the abdomen or to other organs, such as the bladder, bowel, liver or lungs.

The chances of a cure for uterine cancer depend on the stage at which the disease is diagnosed. If uterine cancer is diagnosed at stages 1 or 2, you have a 70–80% chance of living another five years. Many women with stage 1 cancer are completely cured.

If the disease is diagnosed at stage 3, you have a 40-50% chance of living another five years. In approximately 25% of cases, uterine cancer is diagnosed at the fourth stage. By this time, the chances of living at least another five years are only 20–30%.

Treatment of uterine cancer

The main method for endometrial cancer is removal of the uterus, ovaries and fallopian tubes. Sometimes, depending on the stage and extent of the cancer, a combination treatment is used: after surgery, a course of radiation or chemotherapy is prescribed to kill any remaining cancer cells, if any.

In rare cases, in young women who have not yet reached menopause, the uterus is left in place to preserve reproductive function. Then uterine cancer is treated with hormone therapy.

In late, incurable stages of the tumor, chemotherapy is usually used. In this case, the goal of treatment is to achieve remission, when the cancer tumor decreases in size, thereby improving well-being and quality of life. But even in advanced cases of cancer, surgical treatment is sometimes performed to remove as many tumor cells as possible. In addition, radiation, hormonal or chemotherapy are prescribed to relieve pain, reduce the size of the remaining tumor and slow its growth.

Surgery for uterine cancer

The main method of treating stage 1 uterine cancer is extirpation of the uterus with appendages- complete removal of the uterus, cervix, ovaries and fallopian tubes. The surgeon may also take samples of cells from lymph nodes in the pelvis and abdomen, as well as other surrounding tissue. If cancer cells are found in them, the operation is complemented by removal of the lymph nodes.

Most often, an extirpation involves making one large incision in the abdomen so that the surgeon can access the uterus and remove it. This is called laparotomy. Sometimes it is possible to remove the uterus and appendages through small pinpoint incisions - laparoscopic access. During laparoscopic extirpation of the uterus and appendages, several small incisions are made through which a special optical device (laparoscope) and other surgical instruments are inserted. This allows the surgeon to see what is happening inside the abdomen and remove the uterus through the vagina.

Recovery after laparoscopic surgery is much faster, since the intervention is less traumatic for the body.

After surgery, even while in bed, it is recommended to start moving as soon as possible. This is important for improving blood circulation and preventing blood clots from blocking blood vessels. Your doctor at the hospital should show you exercises that will help you avoid complications.

Another possible treatment method With The earliest stages of uterine cancer are endoscopic endometrial ablation. This is the most gentle method of surgical treatment of a malignant tumor of the uterus. Ablation is used in pre- and postmenopausal women, when hysterectomy is contraindicated for health reasons and the woman does not plan to have children. The operation is performed without incisions. Special instruments are inserted through the vagina and cervix, which, using electric current or laser energy, destroy the entire endometrium along with cancer cells.

For stage 2 and 3 uterine cancer, extended hysterectomy is performed, that is, the uterus, cervix, upper part of the vagina, fallopian tubes, ovaries and fatty tissue with lymph nodes surrounding these organs are removed. After surgery, radiation or chemotherapy is often required to reduce the risk of tumor recurrence.

If the tumor has reached a large size and cannot be completely removed, cytoreductive surgery is performed - removing the maximum possible volume of cancer cells. The purpose of such an operation is to relieve symptoms, prolong life and improve its quality.

Radiation therapy for uterine cancer

Radiation therapy is used in combination with surgery to shrink a tumor before surgery or to prevent cancer from recurring after a hysterectomy. Radiation is sometimes used in cases where surgery is not possible.

Two types of radiation therapy are used to treat uterine cancer:

contact radiation therapy (brachytherapy), when a plastic applicator with a radioactive source is inserted into the uterus and irradiation occurs with a large dose of directly affected tissue, with minimal impact on healthy organs;
external beam radiotherapy, when the pelvic area is irradiated using a special device that focuses the rays at the location of the tumor, the effect extends to the surrounding tissue.

You will need to come to the hospital for external beam radiation therapy sessions five days a week, with a break on the weekends. The session lasts several minutes. The course of radiation therapy lasts about four weeks, depending on the stage of the cancer and the location of the tumor in the uterus.

In addition to external beam radiation therapy, some women also undergo contact radiation therapy (brachytherapy). There are different types of brachytherapy with low, medium or high dose radiation. At a low dose, radiation occurs more slowly, so the device can remain in the uterus longer. Contact radiation therapy is usually performed in a hospital setting. Discuss this with your doctor.

Radiation therapy has side effects: skin irritation and redness, hair loss, severe fatigue. Radiation therapy to the pelvic area can affect bowel function and cause nausea and diarrhea. Most side effects will go away once treatment is completed, but about 5% of women develop chronic side effects such as diarrhea and anal bleeding.

Chemotherapy for endometrial cancer

Chemotherapy is used more often after surgery to reduce the risk of cancer coming back as much as possible. Chemotherapy also treats late stages of cancer, when it is not possible to completely remove the tumor. Then this treatment method helps slow down the growth of the tumor, reduce the severity of symptoms, prolong life and improve its quality.

Typically, chemotherapy is carried out in cycles, periods of treatment - courses of chemotherapy, alternated with periods of rest so that the body can recover. Medicines are most often administered intravenously. Treatment is usually carried out in a hospital, but chemotherapy at home is sometimes allowed. This should be discussed with your doctor.

Side effects of chemotherapy:

nausea;
vomit;
hair loss;
fatigue.

The risk of blood poisoning (sepsis) also increases because chemotherapy weakens the body's ability to fight infections. Side effects should go away when you finish treatment.

Hormonal therapy for uterine cancer

Since the development of endometrial cancer may be associated with the influence of estrogen, in some cases hormonal therapy is used for treatment. Usually, for these purposes, synthetic progesterone or hormones that affect the function of the reproductive system are prescribed. Medicines are often administered intramuscularly at varying frequencies, depending on the treatment regimen. Sometimes they switch to tablet forms of hormones.

Hormone therapy is mainly used to treat early uterine cancer in young women for whom it is important to preserve reproductive function. If treatment is successful and the tumor has disappeared, women are given another hormone therapy regimen to restore their menstrual cycle. This takes about 6 months.

Sometimes hormonal therapy is used as a preparatory step for surgery to reduce the size of the tumor. Less commonly, this type of treatment is prescribed at a later stage or if the cancer has grown again.

Treatment may have side effects, including mild nausea, mild muscle cramps, and weight gain. During therapy, menstruation stops and artificial menopause develops. Discuss this with your doctor.

Clinical trials

Much progress has been made in the treatment of uterine cancer. The life expectancy of women diagnosed with uterine cancer increases every year. It was possible to reduce the number of side effects from treatment. This is made possible in part by clinical trials, where new treatments and combinations of treatments are compared with standard ones.

For some cancer patients, participation in clinical trials offers a chance for a cure because the research uses new drugs that may be very effective in treating cancer. As a rule, these drugs are expensive, but are prescribed free of charge if you participate in the study.

If you are offered participation in a clinical trial, you will need to carefully read the study information and provide written consent. You can refuse or stop participating in the trial; this will not affect your treatment.

There is a unified database of clinical trials that are currently being conducted or planned to be conducted in Russia in the Oncology profile. With this information you can.

Living with uterine cancer

Surgery for uterine cancer and other treatment methods are difficult to tolerate. During the recovery period, which can take from one and a half to three months, you should not lift anything heavy (for example, children or heavy bags) or do housework that involves heavy physical exertion. It is recommended that you stop driving for 3-8 weeks after your hysterectomy.

At the end of the course of treatment, you need to undergo regular scheduled examinations. All women treated for uterine cancer are monitored by an oncologist. During scheduled visits to the doctor, the woman undergoes the necessary tests and sometimes undergoes instrumental studies (ultrasound, MRI, etc.) to monitor the tumor.

Sex and social adaptation after hysterectomy

Uterine cancer and its treatment can affect your sex life in the following ways:

Premature onset of menopause: removal of the ovaries can provoke premature decline of a woman’s reproductive function and a failure in the production of sex hormones. Symptoms of menopause include vaginal dryness and loss of sex drive.
Vaginal changes: After radiation treatment for uterine cancer, the vagina may become narrower and less elastic. Sometimes this is an obstacle to intimacy. The use of vaginal dilators can help - special plastic cones that need to be inserted into the vagina to stretch its walls. You can stretch the vagina while having sex, or using your fingers or a vibrator.
Decreased libido: After treatment for uterine cancer, many women lose interest in sex. Treatment can cause severe fatigue, diagnosis can cause nervous shock, and the inability to have children can cause confusion and depression.

Therefore, a temporary loss of interest in sexual activity is quite natural. Try to discuss your feelings with your partner. If you notice that problems in your sex life do not go away over time, find a good psychotherapist. Your doctor may prescribe you a course of antidepressants or suggest psychotherapy sessions. There are cancer support groups where you can get advice from someone who has been through the same thing as you.

To get advice, moral support, help in solving legal and even medical issues, you can visit the portal “Movement Against Cancer” or “Project CO-Action”, which provides comprehensive support for people with cancer. All-Russian 24-hour hotline for psychological assistance to cancer patients and their loved ones 8-800-100-01-91 And 8-800-200-2-200 from 9 to 21 o'clock.

Benefits for cancer patients

Paid sick leave is issued for the entire period of treatment and rehabilitation. If, after treatment, work limitations remain or the woman can no longer perform her previous job (for example, related to hazardous working conditions), she is sent for a medical examination to register disability. In the future, a cash disability benefit will be provided.

Cash benefits are also paid to unemployed citizens caring for a seriously ill person. Your attending physician should provide you with more detailed information.

Patients with cancer have the right to receive free medicines from the list of preferential medicines. To do this, you will need a prescription from your doctor. Sometimes a prescription is issued by a medical commission.

Prevention of uterine cancer

Unfortunately, there are no reliable ways to definitely protect yourself from uterine cancer. However, there are many factors known that, by avoiding them, can significantly reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.

The most effective way to prevent uterine cancer is to maintain a normal weight. The best way to avoid becoming overweight or obese is to eat right and exercise regularly.

A low-fat, high-fiber diet is recommended, including whole grains and at least five servings of vegetables and fruits per day (totaling about 400-500 grams per day). Some research suggests that a diet rich in soy products may help prevent uterine cancer. Soy contains isoflavonoids that protect the lining of the uterus. In addition to soy itself, you can eat tofu cheese. However, reliable evidence for this hypothesis is still insufficient.

For most people, at least 150 minutes (two and a half hours) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (such as cycling or brisk walking) per week is recommended. It is best to distribute this load throughout the week into at least five separate workouts. If you have never exercised or haven't exercised for a long time, get a medical examination before you start exercising.

Research results have shown that long-term use of oral contraceptives may reduce the risk of developing uterine cancer. Other types of birth control, such as the contraceptive implant and intrauterine system, release progestogen (synthetic progesterone). It may also reduce the risk of developing uterine cancer.

Who is treating?

Which doctor should I see if I have uterine cancer?

Using the NaPravku service you can find a gynecologist-oncologist or oncologist. If necessary, you can call an oncologist at home. On our website you can choose an oncology clinic or oncology center by reading reviews and other information about them.

What are the characteristic symptoms and signs of uterine cancer? Very often, oncological diseases in the early stages are asymptomatic: the neoplasm makes itself felt only when the process has already gone far. However, this does not apply to malignant endometrial tumors. With uterine cancer, the first symptoms appear almost immediately, which in the vast majority of cases provides the possibility of a radical solution to the problem and a favorable prognosis.

That is why, if any suspicious signs appear, you should contact a gynecologist. There is no need to put off visiting the doctor “for later”: if the cancer spreads to other parts of your body, its treatment will be more complicated and the prognosis will worsen.

The first symptoms of uterine cancer

A cancerous tumor that develops in the endometrium manifests itself as abnormal vaginal bleeding. In patients with uterine cancer, these symptoms are almost always present, but may vary depending on the functional state of the female reproductive system.

Due to the fact that the disease is directly related to an imbalance of female sex hormones, it usually occurs during the period of hormonal changes, that is, during menopause. In this case, the symptoms of uterine cancer depend on the phase of decline of sexual function:

If a woman has not yet reached menopause, the occurrence of a malignant neoplasm may be indicated by bleeding between menstruation, as well as regular hypermenorrhea - heavy and prolonged periods (more than 7 days).
After menopause (duration of absence of menstruation for 1 year or more), any vaginal bleeding is abnormal and should be a signal for immediate consultation with a doctor. Sometimes the first symptoms of uterine cancer and pronounced signs are watery discharge mixed with blood. As the tumor grows, uterine bleeding intensifies and becomes permanent.

It should be added that only in 1 out of 10 cases the above-described disorders are a consequence of the development of cancer. The same manifestations are characteristic of endometriosis, fibroids (benign neoplasms), polyposis of the mucous membrane, etc. Therefore, their appearance is a reason for examination, and not for panic.

Other signs and symptoms of uterine cancer:

Pain in the pelvic area. Pelvic pain occurs constantly, varies in duration and intensity, and intensifies during menstruation and during sexual intercourse. If the cause of their appearance is a cancerous focus in the endometrium, this indicates the prevalence of the process.
Anemia. If left untreated, constant blood loss contributes to the development of anemia. A woman's hemoglobin decreases, which is accompanied by weakness, dizziness and shortness of breath even with minor physical exertion.
Cancer intoxication. Any cancer disease over time leads to a general deterioration in well-being due to the toxic effect of waste products of malignant cells. In patients with advanced stages of uterine cancer, these signs and symptoms of uterine cancer are manifested by increased irritability, loss of appetite, nausea, and fatigue.

As the disease progresses, the above-described symptoms are joined by pain in the back, legs, pelvic region and other disorders associated with the growth of the tumor into neighboring organs and tissues and the appearance of distant metastases.

Collapse

How quickly does cervical cancer develop? For each woman with this diagnosis, the disease develops differently, so at the first ailment it is necessary to seek help from a specialist.

How quickly do different types of cervical cancer develop?

How long cervical cancer will develop depends on many factors, including the environment, lifestyle, and nutrition.

Cervical cancer

This disease is not a rapidly developing disease. The whole process can take 10 or even 20 years. However, there are cases of rapid growth of tumor cells. Therefore, you should not delay with this; the first signs should be a reason to contact a specialist. Using special equipment, it is possible to diagnose a precancerous condition, which is much easier to cure.

Note! If treatment is not started in time, then it is likely that after 10 years the tumor will enter an advanced and more dangerous stage, which can no longer be treated.

According to statistics, 0.3% of women have an advanced stage of malignant neoplasm. This means that metastases have begun to penetrate other organs and tissues, thus disrupting their functioning.

Squamous cell carcinoma

Despite the fact that this form of tumor is asymptomatic, it can be diagnosed during a routine examination by a gynecologist. Over time, the cancer tumor begins to grow, and then the first symptoms appear. Squamous cell carcinoma is a tumor in which immature cells are formed, and they multiply very quickly, so the course of the disease from the first to the last stage occurs rapidly.

Adenocarcinoma

This type of tumor is hormone dependent and is most common in menopausal women. The neoplasm is aggressive in nature and begins to metastasize to other organs, lymph nodes and blood. After this, the development of the disease is rapid.

Exophytic cancer

A malignant tumor of this form is noticeable already in the first stages. The pathology occurs with visible symptoms, these are compactions and growths on the neck.

Endophytic cancer

This type of malignant neoplasm is already in an advanced stage. The whole process takes place in the uterus itself, so diagnosis will require special equipment.

A malignant tumor has the ability to grow quickly and extend beyond the uterus itself. It metastasizes into human organs and tissues, and is also transported in the blood throughout the body. In this case, the lymph nodes are affected.

How quickly does cervical cancer develop by stage?

To begin with, we can distinguish the zero stage, or precancerous condition. Having noticed it at the first stage, there is a 100% guarantee of its complete removal from the body. In this case, cancer will develop with minor changes in the epithelium. This process happens slowly.

First stage

Cancer cells begin to grow and a tumor forms. The neoplasm does not affect nearby organs and tissues. Metastases may spread to the cervical canal.

Second stage

The tumor is significant in size and, in the absence of proper treatment, begins to grow beyond the uterus. The pelvis and vagina are affected.

Third stage

The tumor grows more and more, they affect the ureters and metastasize to the lymph nodes. Metastases also grow in the pelvic area and other nearby organs. The tumor also affects the walls of the vagina.

Fourth stage

This is a severe form of malignant tumor, in which metastases penetrate the bladder and rectum. At this stage of development of the tumor, metastases can affect the lungs, liver, kidneys and bones. How long it takes for stage 4 cervical cancer to develop will depend on the body. To a greater extent, the progression of the disease occurs very quickly, and the lymph nodes are also affected.

How quickly does cervical cancer develop from a precancerous condition?

How long a cancer will develop depends on a number of factors, including the histology of the tumor, existing pathologies, body resistance, etc.

The onset of a malignant tumor is preceded by dysplasia, when epithelial cells are modified and block the work of healthy cells. Most often this happens in the transition zone, i.e. in the place where the cervix and the cervical canal meet.

It is quite difficult to say exactly how quickly uterine cancer develops in the body. Therefore, it is worth undergoing an annual examination by a specialist. If cancer cells are not removed in time, then within 2 years, or even less, a malignant tumor will appear, which will become increasingly difficult to cure.

The progression of cervical cancer may take 2 years and during this time go through all 4 stages, or may not show signs for 10 years. However, you should not rely on universal statistics; in each case, the entire process of development of a neoplasm occurs differently. There are cases when dysplasia did not move further and went away on its own over time. It is best to contact a specialist and be observed by him, especially if there are predisposing factors to the development of a cancerous tumor. On average, the minimum time for transition from stage to stage is 2 years.

How long it takes for cervical cancer to develop largely depends on the woman herself. Lifestyle, proper nutrition and regular monitoring by a specialist play a role here. If any discomfort occurs, you should consult a gynecologist who will conduct an examination and identify its cause. After all, the process of formation of cancer cells can be rapid, and in the final stages it is incurable. Therefore, it is very important to monitor your health.

Uterine cancer is a malignant tumor of the uterus, which often manifests itself with frequent uterine bleeding. Uterine cancer is one of the most common types of malignant tumors in women.

Causes of uterine cancer

The exact causes of uterine cancer are not yet known, but it has been noted that certain factors increase the risk of developing this disease. An increased risk of uterine cancer is observed:

In overweight women;
In women with;
In women with diabetes;
In menopausal women taking;
If started before age 12;
If occurred at the age of over 55 years;
If the woman has never been pregnant;
In older women (the older the woman, the higher the risk of developing uterine cancer);
In women with;
In women being treated for breast cancer and taking the medicine Tamoxifen;
In women who have inherited a special gene that increases the risk of developing uterine and bowel cancer;
In women who frequently drink alcoholic beverages.

Types of Uterine Cancer

The uterus is a muscular organ, the internal cavity of which is covered with a special type of mucous membrane - the endometrium. Depending on the cells from which the malignant tumor developed, there are two main types of uterine cancer:

Endometrial cancer (adenocarcinoma)

This is a malignant tumor that grows from the mucous layer of the uterus. 75% of cases of malignant tumors of the uterus are endometrial cancer. This article focuses primarily on endometrial cancer.

Cancer of the muscular layer of the uterus (leiomyosarcoma)

This tumor is less common, occurring in approximately 15% of uterine cancer cases.

Symptoms and signs of uterine cancer

The main symptoms of uterine cancer are. Uterine bleeding due to uterine cancer can appear at different times of the cycle and, as a rule, is quite profuse.

If a woman has already reached menopause (her periods stopped more than a year ago), then with uterine cancer, uterine bleeding resumes, which can create a false impression of the resumption of the menstrual cycle.

Sometimes uterine cancer can manifest as scanty symptoms that do not stop for weeks.

In later stages of uterine cancer, the following symptoms may appear:

Pain in the lower abdomen
with an unpleasant odor
Losing weight for no apparent reason
Increased fatigue, weakness

Diagnosis of uterine cancer

A gynecologist may notice signs of uterine cancer during a routine gynecological examination. Uterine cancer may be indicated by an increase in the size of the uterus and a change in its shape (deformation).

To clarify the diagnosis, the doctor may prescribe the following examinations:

Ultrasound of the uterus

Hysteroscopy and endometrial biopsy

Surgery for uterine cancer

Typically, in the early stages of uterine cancer, the first step is surgery to remove the uterus (hysterectomy). To reduce the risk of relapse (tumor growth again), doctors usually remove not only the uterus, but also the uterine appendages (fallopian tubes and ovaries), as well as lymph nodes that may have been affected by the tumor. On our website there are separate articles devoted to this topic: and.

Radiotherapy

Radiotherapy for uterine cancer can reduce the risk of relapse (re-growth of the tumor) after surgery, or can be prescribed as an independent treatment, or in combination with chemotherapy.

Hormone therapy

Since endometrial cancer is extremely sensitive to hormonal changes in the body, medications that reduce estrogen levels and increase progesterone levels in the blood can slow the rate of tumor growth.

Chemotherapy

Medicines used in chemotherapy prevent cancer cells from dividing and tumor growth. These medications may be prescribed as tablets or IVs. Chemotherapy may use one drug or a combination of several drugs.

After treatment for uterine cancer

After completing treatment for endometrial cancer, a woman requires careful monitoring by her doctor. Regular examinations and examinations will allow you to detect recurrence of cancer in time if the disease returns. Discuss with your doctor how often you need to see each other.

Typically, after treatment for stage 1 uterine cancer, a woman is advised to visit her doctor every 6 months for the first year, and then once a year.

After treatment for more advanced uterine cancer, check-ups with your doctor are required every 3 months for the first year, every 3-6 months for the second year, and then once a year.

If uterine cancer cannot be cured

In some cases, even despite adequate and modern treatment, uterine cancer cannot be cured. In this case, the woman is prescribed supportive treatment that helps cope with pain and prolong life for as long as possible.