Posted in: Cancer by Dr. Tarang Krishna Posted Date: 28 Jan, 2020
Endometrial cancer, commonly known as the uterus cancer is a disease in which cancer cells form in the tissues of the endometrium. Obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer. It is known as a risk factor for many types of cancer but the statistics for endometrial cancer are even more staggering. Hence, early diagnosis and treatment increase the chances of treatment.
Symptoms and Signs
The most rampant sign of endometrial cancer is abnormal vaginal bleeding. The leading cancer specialists list some other signs which can be included:
- Major changes in the length or the heaviness of menstrual periods.
- Vaginal bleeding or spotting between menstrual periods.
- Water or bloody vaginal discharge.
- Excessive vaginal bleeding after menopause - This is usually a consequence of menopause or other non-cancerous situations but in some cases, it could be a sign of endometrial cancer.
- Pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis or pain during sexual intercourse.
If you experience any of these signs, make an appointment with your doctor. These do not imply a sign of serious conditions but it is important to get them checked out. Your doctor can help in understanding the cause of your symptoms and recommend the appropriate treatment.
The Link Between Obesity and Endometrial Cancer Prognosis
The most well-known cancer linked to obesity is endometrial cancer, though obesity can be linked to ovarian, breast and colon cancers. It may also be linked with other cancers as well, including esophageal, pancreatic and kidney cancer. As more women are getting obese, the risk of endometrial cancer is also increasing. Obese women are two to three times more likely to get endometrial cancer.
For women who are 50 pounds overweight, they are 10 times more likely to get endometrial cancer. It is important to understand the importance of weight loss to reduce the risk. Various studies have shown that a large weight loss like that seen with weight-loss surgery resulted in lower rates of cancer, heart disease, and diabetes affecting the quality of life.
Impact of Obesity on Outcomes
Several reports show there is a higher rate of mortality in obese patients with endometrial cancer. Women with early-stage endometrial cancer were twice as likely to die of cardiovascular disease and not to actually die from their endometrial cancer. It may be patients with early-stage who need more attention to weight loss rather than the type of treatment given in order to help survive longer. In short, weight loss appears to improve the long-term mortality in obese patients.
How does Obesity increases Endometrial Cancer Risk?
Researchers don’t know the exact cause or reason why obesity significantly increases the risk of endometrial cancer - but there are some studies which explain a few reasons.
The ovaries create and release the estrogen, the primary female sex hormone. But the fat tissues also have the power to convert some hormones into estrogen. The more fat tissues you have, the more hormones are converted into estrogen - increasing the level of estrogen and therefore, her risk for endometrial cancer. The risk becomes especially significant if the woman is more than 50 pounds. Some other risk factors related to high levels of estrogen are:
- Beginning menstruation before 12.
- Menopause after the age of 50.
- Having PCOD or Polycystic Ovarian Syndrome.
- Never able to have a child.
Obesity is not only linked to an increased likelihood of getting endometrial cancer, but it also increases the risk of dying from the same. Morbidly obese women are more likely to succumb to endometrial cancer (as well as from other health problems relating to their obesity) than women of healthier body weights with endometrial cancer.
Based on the knowledge of the various ways involved in obesity-associated endometrial cancer, there are multiple interventions for the prevention of endometrial cancer. The first and foremost is to keep the weight in check. Other include potential lifestyle interventions and cancer treatments.
Many medications which aim to interrupt or reverse the hormonal and metabolic derangements associated with obesity and insulin resistance are also used. Researchers are working better to understand the relationship between obesity and endometrial cancer. However, with the existing research and from what is understood, the message is clear - for better overall health and reduced risk of endometrial cancer, maintain healthy body weight.
About The Author
Dr. Tarang Krishna
Dr. Tarang Krishna, Director at Cancer Healer Center, is the perfect epitome of perseverance and dedication.
He has an impressive educational background to his credit. He completed his under-graduation in Medicine and Surgery from Pune, India and did his MD (Hom) from Agra University, India.Thesis on MD was on "Treatment of cancer" where he presented cases of almost 100 patients and the response of the medicines in the treatment of cancer. He then completed his Ph.d in Oncology from the United Kingdom and his thesis on the ‘Efficacy of Medicines in the Treatment of Cancer’ is greatly commemorated and honored.
He befittingly represents alternate medicine and has contributed significantly towards the development and research of immunotherapy.
Through his nationwide chain of “Cancer Healer Center” clinics he strives to offer superior cancer treatment, using immunotherapy.
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