What Factors Affect an Endometrial Cancer Prognosis?

Endometrial cancer refers to cancer that originates in the endometrium, which is the inside lining of the uterus. Prognosis is dependent upon how early it is diagnosed and the extent to which it has spread. The one-year survival rate of early diagnosed cases is 92%, while the five-year survival probability for cases which have not spread is 95%. In instances where the cancer has grown and reached distant organs, the five-year survival probability is 23%. Early detection is critically important for a good endometrial cancer prognosis.

Since early recognition of these malignancies is imperative, women should be apprised of the symptoms. Vaginal bleeding is a sign that manifests early in this cancer, and women should be aware that as little as one drop of blood following menopause is not normal. Postmenopausal women may experience spotting and premenopausal women may have bleeding between periods. Other symptoms include heavy or frequent bleeding episodes after the age of 40 and lower abdominal pain. Another sign is a clear or white discharge from the vagina after menopause.

In order to receive a good endometrial cancer prognosis through early detection, women should know when to see a doctor. They should make an appointment if they experience bleeding following intercourse or douching. The same holds true if their periods lasts longer than one week, or if they occur as frequently as every 21 days. It is also time to see a doctor if they experience bleeding following six months of no bleeding at all.

Awareness of the factors that increase the risk of this disease is advantageous in getting the best possible endometrial cancer prognosis. A history of benign endometrial growths and polycystic ovarian syndrome will raise the risk. Diabetes, infertility, and obesity may also play a role. The drug tamoxifen and hormone replacement therapy that does not include progesterone are factors. Infrequent periods and never having been pregnant will raise the risk as well.

The type of treatment advised will depend on how far the malignancy has spread and also on the probable endometrial cancer prognosis. Surgical removal of the uterus, ovaries, and associated tubes may be recommended for early stage 1. A combination of radiation therapy and surgery may be advised for stage 1 cases that have advanced to the lymph nodes or that have a high probability or recurring. This combination is used for stage 2 as well. In some instances chemotherapy may be used, particularly for stage 3 and stage 4 cancer cases.