Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is cancer of the uterus. The majority of endometrial cancers form in the endometrium, or lining, of the uterus. Over 47,000 new cases of endometrial cancer are diagnosed in the United States each year. The five-year survival rate of endometrial cancer is almost 70%; it is even higher during the early stages of the disease, which is when most women are diagnosed. There are no known specific causes, but risk factors include obesity, certain hormone therapies, age, and a higher number of menstrual cycles over a woman's lifetime. A woman's risk is lowered if she has taken birth control pills, or has been pregnant. Symptoms of endometrial cancer include pelvic pain; unexpected vaginal bleeding; and difficulty urinating. The stages of endometrial cancer range from zero to IV, depending on tumor size and spread. The majority of endometrial cancers are treatable with surgery, although chemotherapy, radiation, or hormone therapy may also be used.