Everything about uterine cancer

June is Uterine Cancer Awareness Month, aimed at increasing public awareness about the symptoms, risk factors, and the vital importance of early detection.

Uterine cancer is one of the most frequently diagnosed gynecological malignancies. One of its key characteristics is that it often causes symptoms to appear at an early stage. Therefore, timely evaluation and diagnosis significantly increase the chances of successful treatment and recovery.

What is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer represents a group of malignancies that develop in the body of the uterus. In the majority of cases, the tumor originates in the endometrium — the inner lining of the uterus — which is why it is often referred to as endometrial cancer.

The disease primarily occurs in postmenopausal women, though it can also develop in women of reproductive age, particularly in the presence of certain risk factors.

Which Symptoms Should You Pay Attention To?

The most common symptoms of uterine cancer include:

• Postmenopausal bleeding;
• Bleeding between periods (intermenstrual bleeding);
• Prolonged or heavy menstrual bleeding;
• Watery discharge;
• Pelvic pain.

It is important to note that any abnormal bleeding requires a consultation with a gynecologist, especially after menopause. However, this symptom does not always indicate an oncological process, as bleeding is frequently caused by benign conditions, particularly in women of reproductive age.

Risk Factors That Increase the Likelihood of Developing Uterine Cancer:

• Age ≥55 years;
• Obesity and metabolic syndrome;
• Nulliparity (a woman who has never given birth);
• Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS / chronic anovulation);
• Early menarche (<12 years) and late menopause (>55 years);
• Genetic predisposition (family history of uterine, ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer);
• Estrogen monotherapy (unopposed estrogen therapy).

Having a risk factor does not mean that the disease will definitely develop; it only increases the probability. Consequently, regular medical surveillance and timely specialist consultation upon the appearance of any suspicious symptoms are crucial for women with risk factors.

Diagnosis

Today, uterine cancer can often be diagnosed at an early stage, when treatment outcomes and prognosis are most favorable. The diagnosis is established based on an individual patient assessment, morphological (histological), and radiological examinations.

Modern Treatment Options

The treatment of uterine cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the histological type of the tumor, and the patient's overall health status.

Modern medicine utilizes:

• Surgical treatment (via open or minimally invasive — laparoscopic and robotic — approaches);
• Radiation therapy;
• Chemotherapy;
• Hormone therapy;
• Targeted therapy and immunotherapy.

The best treatment outcomes are achieved through the involvement of a multidisciplinary team, where a gynecologic oncologist, clinical oncologist, radiologist, pathomorphologist, and other specialists as needed, collaboratively design an individualized treatment plan for each patient.

Doctor's Message

June — Uterine Cancer Awareness Month — is another opportunity to remind women that time dedicated to their own health is the most important investment.

It is critical to note that currently, there is no routine screening test for uterine cancer (testing asymptomatic healthy women for early detection). This is exactly why the timely evaluation of symptoms, such as abnormal genital tract bleeding, and seeking medical attention without delay, is of paramount importance.

In addition, I would like to remind you that a free State Cervical Cancer Screening Program operates in Georgia, which includes PAP tests and HPV (Human Papillomavirus) testing for women aged 25–60 according to the relevant protocol. Regular screening is one of the most effective ways to prevent and detect cervical cancer early.

I am pleased that the Caucasus Medical Center is actively involved in this state screening program, allowing our patients who meet the criteria to benefit from these screening services.

An early diagnosis means more opportunities, more effective treatment, and a better prognosis. Your health comes first. You come first!

Archil Sharashenidze

MD, PhD

Gynecologic Oncologist

Head of the Gynecologic Oncology Center