Uterine Cancer Facts

What Is Endometrial/Uterine Cancer?

There are two types of uterine cancer: endometrial cancer and uterine sarcoma. Uterine sarcoma is uncommon and forms in the uterine muscles or tissues. Endometrial cancer is the most common type, and it occurs when malignant cells develop in the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

What Increases Your Risk of Endometrial/Uterine Cancer?

Several factors may increase your risk for endometrial/uterine cancer, including:

  • Age: Women older than 50 are more likely to develop endometrial/uterine cancer.
  • Obesity: Being obese or overweight increases a woman’s risk.
  • Fertility issues: Difficulty getting pregnant or having irregular periods
  • Previous medical treatment: If you took tamoxifen during breast cancer treatment or estrogen without progesterone for hormone replacement, you may have an increased risk of endometrial/uterine cancer.
  • Family history: Having close family members who have had uterine, colon or ovarian cancer increases your risk.

What Are the Symptoms of endometrial/Uterine Cancer?

It is important to know your body and what is normal for you so you can identify the warning signs or symptoms of endometrial/uterine cancer.

Symptoms of endometrial/uterine cancer include:

  • Unusual vaginal bleeding
  • Pelvic pain
  • Unexplained weight loss
  • Feeling a mass
  • Abnormal vagina discharge