Uterine Cancer | Endometrial Cancer | Treatment in Plano, TX According to the National Cancer Institute, more than 43,000 cases of uterine cancer (also referred to as endometrial cancer) will be diagnosed this year. The Women’s Specialists of Plano (972.379.2416) offers uterine cancer treatment in Plano, TX. They recently compiled the following Q & A on this serious form of cancer. Early screening is important in order to prevent uterine cancer from starting or spreading. What is the Uterus? The uterus is the hollow, pear-shaped organ that resides in the pelvic region of a female. The uterus is a part of the reproductive system and is the place where a baby grows during pregnancy. The uterus holds the cervix, which is the lower, narrow area of the uterus, and the fallopian tubes that extend from both sides of the organ. The uterus contains two layers of tissue: the inner layer is known as the endometrium; the outer layer is called the moemetrium. It is within this lining that a woman’s body prepares itself for menstruation as the walls within the uterus are lined and thickened with blood and then released monthly through the vagina. What Conditions Can Exist in the Uterus? Fibroids (benign tumors), endometriosis (endometrial tissue that grows inside the body, outside of the uterus) and endometrial hyperplasia (an increase of cells in the lining of the uterus) are all benign conditions that can affect the uterus. Another condition that can exist within the uterus is Adenomysis—in which the endometrium exists in the muscle of the uterus. Endometrial polyps can also exist in the uterus and is another source of abnormal bleeding. These conditions should be monitored and treatment for each condition is available. What is Uterine Cancer? Uterine cancer is a type of cancer that affects the uterus; it most often occurs when abnormal or cancerous cells begin to develop and multiply in the endometrium lining of the uterus. When cancer occurs within the lining of the uterus, it is known as endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer. If the cancer develops in the tissue and muscles that make up the uterus, the cancer is known as a sarcoma. Sarcomas are the most rare of uterine cancers. What Causes Uterine Cancer? The exact cause of uterine cancer is not known; however, studies have shown that there are some risk factors: • Age. Uterine cancer, endometrial cancer and sarcomas of the uterus most often affect women over the age of 50 • Obesity. Obese women have higher levels of estrogen in their bodies because the body makes some of its estrogen naturally in fatty tissues. Higher levels of estrogen create a higher risk for uterine cancer. • Untreated Conditions. Certain uterine conditions, if left untreated, could increase the chances of a woman getting uterine cancer. Chronically irregular periods, especially going more than three months between periods will increase the risk. • Race. White woman are more likely to get uterine cancer than African-American women. • Diabetes and hypertension. • Certain hormone-related therapies. Women who are on estrogen replacement therapy and unbalanced hormonal therapy should be monitored closely. These specific therapies, as well as