Endometrial Cancer
About Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer is a disease in which malignant (cancer) cells form in the tissues of the endometrium.
The endometrium is the lining of the uterus, a hollow, muscular organ in a woman’s pelvis. The uterus is where a fetus grows. In most nonpregnant women, the uterus is about 3 inches long. The lower, narrow end of the uterus is the cervix, which leads to the vagina.
Cancer of the endometrium is different from cancer of the muscle of the uterus, which is called sarcoma of the uterus.
Symptoms
Signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer include unusual vaginal discharge or pain in the pelvis.
These and other signs and symptoms may be caused by endometrial cancer or by other conditions. Check with your doctor if you have any of the following:
- Bleeding or discharge not related to menstruation (periods). Difficult or painful urination.
- Pain during sexual intercourse.
- Pain in the pelvic area.
Risk Factors
Obesity, high blood pressure, and diabetes mellitus may increase the risk of endometrial cancer.