Uterine Cancer
Uterine cancer, or cancer of the uterus (womb), also may be called endometrial cancer. It is the:
- Fourth most common cancer in women
- Most common cancer of women’s reproductive organs
Each year, more than 40,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with uterine cancer. The average age for diagnosis of uterine cancer is 60. However, the number of younger women with uterine cancer is going up. Of uterine cancers, about:
- 25 percent are found before women go through menopause
- 5 percent are found before women are 40 years old
Early Diagnosis is key. Most uterine cancers develop over a period of years. They may start as less serious problems such as endometrial hyperplasia, which is an overgrowth of cells in the lining of the uterus.
Fortunately, many uterine cancers are found early because of warning signs such as abnormal or postmenopausal bleeding. If uterine cancer is found in the earliest stages, it often can be treated successfully.
At Banner MD Anderson Cancer Center, uterine cancer is treated with a multidisciplinary approach in which a team of experts including gynecologic oncologists and radiation oncologists work together to develop an individual treatment plan based on each patient’s unique needs. Clinical nurse navigators work closely with patients, guiding them through their journey and serving as a single point of contact throughout their care.
