Uterine/Cervical Cancer
Uterine and cervical cancer are two different types of cancer, but are both found in the uterus. Uterine cancer is found in the endometrium. Endometrial cancer is another name for uterine cancer. Cervical cancer is also found in the uterus, but is found in the lower portion of the uterus on the flat cells of the cervix. It is imperative that women have pap smears done on a routine basis to ensure that these cancers will be caught early. Uterine cancer does not have a routine test, but sometimes a pap smear can detect this cancer if it is early enough. Most women are not tested for uterine cancer until symptoms appear such as abnormal bleeding, or pain. Each of these cancers have a higher rate of being cured if they are caught early. These cancers develop gradually, but once developed can spread at a very rapid rate. Lymph nodes nearby can transport these cancers to other organs, and these cancers can also spread through the uterus and cervical wall which can affect other organs. These cancers are mostly diagnosed in women over the age of 50, but are also diagnosed in younger women. HPV also know as human papillomavirus is a sexually transmitted disease that is a cause of cervical cancer. Other causes of cervical cancer are HIV (human immunodeficiency virus), smoking and malnutrition. The causes of uterine cancer are unknown, but doctors have found that women with hormonal imbalances are more frequently diagnosed with uterine cancer. The treatments for cervical cancer are surgical procedures to remove the cancerous cells, and at times chemotherapy is also needed. A hysterectomy may also be needed in severe cases. Uterine cancer is also treated by surgical procedures, and chemotherapy. Early detection of these cancers are the key, so make routine check-ups with your gynecologist or physician and use precautions if you are sexually active.
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