Endometrial cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system in the United States. In 2008, over 41,000 women were diagnosed with cancer of the uterus.
Endometrial/Uterine Cancer Basics
Most uterine cancers arise in the endometrium, which is the lining of the uterus. This is called endometrial cancer.
Other uterine cancers arise in the myometrium, which the muscular layer of the uterus. These cancers are called uterine sarcomas.
75% of uterine tumors occur after menopause, and 75% are diagnosed in early stages where surgery alone is typically curative. Survival for the earliest stages of endometrial cancer is greater than 95%. Early detection is key; if you experience post-menopausal bleeding, you should consult your doctor immediately. Most endometrial cancers present as irregular bleeding or post-menopausal bleeding.
Types of Endometrial Cancer
The term endometrial cancer actually refers to multiple types of cancer that can occur in the endometrium:
Endometrial Carcinoma: Originates in the glands of the uterine lining. There are several types, including endometrioid
adenocarcinoma, which is the most common type of endometrial cancer. It is also among the most treatable forms of endometrial cancer.
Endometrial Stromal Sarcoma: This is much less common than endometrial carcinoma, and originates in the connective tissue of the endometrium.
