Endometrial Cancer: A Silent Threat You Shouldn’t Ignore
Insights from an Endometrial Cancer Specialist in Lucknow
Endometrial cancer, a malignancy that begins in the lining of the uterus, is the most common gynecologic cancer globally. Yet, it often goes unrecognized until it progresses, primarily due to a lack of public awareness. Although it is highly treatable when detected early, the silence surrounding its symptoms makes it a hidden threat, especially for postmenopausal women.
Global and Indian Perspectives
Worldwide, more than 417,000 women were diagnosed with endometrial cancer in 2022, making it the sixth most common cancer among women. India sees approximately 13,000 to 14,000 new cases annually. Unfortunately, many of these are diagnosed at later stages due to insufficient screening and awareness, particularly in rural and semi-urban areas. This highlights the urgent need for better education and timely intervention. If you notice symptoms like postmenopausal bleeding or irregular discharge, consulting an endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow can be your first step toward early detection and recovery.
What Causes Endometrial Cancer?
Endometrial cancer arises when cells in the uterine lining start dividing uncontrollably. The development of this cancer is closely linked to estrogen imbalance, especially when not counteracted by progesterone.
Common risk factors include advancing age (most cases occur in women aged 50–60), obesity, early menstruation or late menopause, and hormonal disorders such as PCOS. Conditions like diabetes and hypertension also increase the risk. One of the most significant inherited risk factors is Lynch syndrome—a genetic condition that predisposes individuals to both colon and endometrial cancers.
Scientific research indicates that obesity alone contributes to over 40% of endometrial cancer cases in developed countries. That’s why weight management, regular screenings, and personalized advice from an endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow can significantly reduce the risk and improve outcomes for high-risk women.
Recognizing Symptoms and Detecting Early
The most common warning sign of endometrial cancer is abnormal uterine bleeding, particularly in postmenopausal women. In fact, postmenopausal bleeding should never be considered normal. Other symptoms may include pelvic discomfort, watery or blood-stained vaginal discharge, irregular menstrual cycles in premenopausal women, and pain during intercourse.
If you experience any of these symptoms, do not delay medical evaluation. Your endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow will guide you through the appropriate diagnostic steps. These may include a transvaginal ultrasound to assess endometrial thickness, an endometrial biopsy (which remains the gold standard for diagnosis), or a hysteroscopy for direct visual examination of the uterus. MRI or CT scans may be used for staging, especially in advanced cases.
Types and Stages of Endometrial Cancer
Endometrial cancer is broadly classified into two main types:
- Type I: Estrogen-dependent, typically slow-growing and well-differentiated (usually endometrioid adenocarcinomas).
- Type II: More aggressive variants like serous or clear cell carcinomas, often estrogen-independent and poorly differentiated.
Another rare and aggressive form is carcinosarcoma, which behaves more like a combination of carcinoma and sarcoma.
The cancer is staged using the FIGO system:
- Stage I: Confined to the uterus.
- Stage II: Spread to the cervix.
- Stage III: Spread beyond the uterus but within the pelvis.
- Stage IV: Involvement of distant organs such as the lungs or liver.
Accurate staging helps your endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow design a tailored treatment plan that offers the best chance for recovery.
Stage-wise Treatment Approaches
For early-stage (Stage I) disease, surgery is usually curative. This involves a total hysterectomy with removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes. In high-risk cases, pelvic lymph node dissection and postoperative radiation may be advised.
Stage II disease also requires surgery, followed by radiation therapy to reduce the chance of recurrence. In Stage III and IV cancers, treatment becomes more complex. Surgery is still considered if feasible, but chemotherapy (typically with Carboplatin and Paclitaxel) and radiation therapy play major roles. For patients with poor response to standard therapies, targeted drugs and immunotherapy are often considered.
A highly experienced endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow can help patients navigate these decisions with a clear and compassionate approach, using the latest evidence-based strategies.
Targeted Therapy and Immunotherapy
Breakthroughs in molecular biology have led to more personalized treatment options. Targeted therapies, such as Trastuzumab, are now being used for HER2-positive tumors—particularly in aggressive subtypes like serous carcinoma. Lenvatinib combined with Pembrolizumab, an immunotherapy agent, has shown significant success in recurrent or advanced cases.
For tumors that are MSI-H (Microsatellite Instability-High) or dMMR (Mismatch Repair-deficient), Pembrolizumab has become a game-changer. In fact, based on the KEYNOTE-775 trial, this combination significantly improved progression-free survival in previously treated advanced cases. Today, MSI/dMMR testing is standard in all new diagnoses, so be sure to ask your endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow about these options.
Prevention and Risk Reduction
While not all cases of endometrial cancer can be prevented, there are several steps women can take to lower their risk:
- Maintain a healthy weight and stay physically active.
- Control conditions like diabetes and hypertension.
- Avoid unopposed estrogen therapy unless paired with progesterone.
- Treat PCOS early and effectively.
- Undergo regular gynecological exams, especially after menopause.
- Seek genetic counseling if you have a family history of Lynch syndrome.
Remember, prevention begins with knowledge. Regular screenings and proactive consultations with an endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow can make a life-saving difference.
Final Thoughts: Awareness Equals Empowerment
Endometrial cancer may be common, but it doesn’t have to be deadly. Caught early, it is one of the most treatable cancers. Abnormal bleeding is a message your body sends—don’t ignore it, assume it’s harmless, or delay help.
A simple check-up with a skilled endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow could protect your health and save your life. Whether it’s unusual bleeding, risk factor evaluation, or even genetic counseling, taking that first step today could mean many healthier years ahead.
Book Your Appointment Now
If you’re experiencing abnormal bleeding or fall into a high-risk category, consult an experienced endometrial cancer specialist in Lucknow today. Your health is worth it—and the right guidance could make all the difference.
