Uterine Cancer Treatment Options

Uterine cancer, also commonly referred to as endometrial cancer, is a form of cancer typified by the uncontrolled growth and proliferation of the endometrial cells (cells lining the uterus). As per Mayo Clinic, women who have reached menopause are at an increased risk of developing the cancer. Bleeding after menopause or experiencing prolonged periods or bleeding in between periods often aids in the detection of the cancer in its primary stages, thus setting the stage for the treatment process.

Treatments Methods

• According to the Mayo Clinic, surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy are some of the common treatments for uterine cancer. One of the most common treatments is a hysterectomy, in which the uterus is surgically removed from the patient's body in order to prevent the spreading of the cancer to other body organs. Post-surgical radiation therapy and chemotherapy are recommended for patients who have a high risk of cancer recurrence. Radiation uses high energy X-rays to damage the cancer cells. During chemotherapy patients are administered anti-cancer drugs orally or intravenously in order to destroy the malignant cells.

Time Frame

• The time frame of the treatment methods administered to uterine cancer patients depends upon the spreading and proliferation of the malignant cells inside the body. However in most cases, radiation is administered daily for almost four to five weeks. Chemotherapy is administered periodically every two to three months.

Side Effects

• Some of the common side effects experienced after a hysterectomy include pain in the lower abdominal region, bleeding or infection and pain during urination. Side effects associated with radiation therapy include diarrhea, increased urge for urination and abdominal cramps, which may cause nausea.

Success Rates

• The success rates of the uterine cancer treatment techniques vary from individual to individual depending upon the maturation and growth of the cancer cells in them. However, according to the American Cancer Society, the average five-year survival rate is approximately 83 percent.

Considerations

• Women cannot become pregnant after their uterus has been removed. Therefore, a hysterectomy can be a difficult choice for women with uterine cancer. Neverthless, surgery is frequently the only way to remove the cancer.