SAEDNEWS: A women’s oncology fellowship faculty member noted that uterine cancer is most common in older adults, usually after age 50, though certain factors can increase the risk.
Dr. Elham Shirali, a faculty member and women’s oncology fellow, explained that uterine cancer occurs when the inner lining of the uterus grows abnormally and uncontrollably. It is often detectable early because the most common symptom is abnormal bleeding. In premenopausal women, heavy periods or bleeding between cycles can be warning signs. In postmenopausal women, any unusual bleeding requires immediate medical evaluation.
Uterine cancer is typically diagnosed through ultrasound and endometrial biopsy. As women approach menopause, menstrual bleeding naturally decreases and cycles lengthen. Persistent heavy or prolonged periods around age 49–50 should prompt a doctor’s visit. Other signs in advanced stages include abnormal discharge, pelvic pain or pressure, pain during urination or intercourse, unexplained weight loss, and fatigue.
Risk factors include elevated estrogen levels, obesity, and family history of uterine or certain gastrointestinal cancers. Early detection often allows surgery alone to be sufficient, while advanced cases may require chemotherapy or radiotherapy after surgery.
Dr. Shirali emphasized prevention strategies for cervical cancer, mainly through HPV vaccination for girls under 15 and up to age 26. For those unvaccinated, regular screening is crucial: Pap smears from age 21–25 and combined Pap and HPV tests after 25 for sexually active women. Abnormal results lead to colposcopy, which magnifies the cervix to detect abnormal cells and guide treatment without removing the uterus or cervix when possible.
The leading cause of cervical cancer is HPV infection. Other risk factors include smoking, multiple sexual partners, and skipping regular screenings. Warning signs include abnormal bleeding, pelvic pain, unusual vaginal discharge, and foul-smelling secretions. Early detection allows surgical treatment, while advanced stages typically require chemotherapy or radiotherapy. Timely attention to symptoms and consistent screening are key to preventing and effectively treating both uterine and cervical cancers.
