We have previously discussed ovarian, breast, and other types of cancer affecting women. We’d like to discuss the most common gynecologic cancer in our country – endometrial cancer, which affects the lining of the uterus (the endometrium).
Five Facts from the National Cancer Institute
- About 52,630 new cases of endometrial cancer were diagnosed in 2014.
- Endometrial cancer represents 3.2% of all new cancer cases in the United States.
- Endometrial cancer is most frequently diagnosed among women aged 55 to 62, with the median age of 62.
- Approximately 2.7 percent of women will be diagnosed with endometrial cancer.
- 67.9% of endometrial cancers are diagnosed at the local stage (stage 1) with a five-year survival rate of 95.1%.
Since many gynecologic cancers are linked to lifestyle, you can help reduce your risk by eating foods high in fiber, having regular check-ups, exercising, limit your alcohol intake, and not smoking. Of course, there are some risk factors – such as age and family history – that you won’t be able to change. But taking care of your body can help reduce the risk factors related to lifestyle.
Schedule an appointment with your Capital Women’s Care provider if you experience abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge. The earlier endometrial cancer is detected, the higher the probability of successful treatment.
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