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Uterine Cancer
Facts, Symptoms and Risk Factors

Uterine Cancer Facts and Statistics

Uterine cancer includes two main types of cancer: Endometrial Cancer and Uterine Sarcoma. Endometrial Cancer is cancer that arises in the lining of the uterus (or endometrium). Over 90% of all uterine cancer cases are endometrial cancer, so the terms “uterine cancer” and “endometrial cancer” are often used interchangeably. Uterine Sarcoma, a much rarer form of uterine cancer, is cancer that forms in the muscles of the uterus or other tissues that support the uterus. Uterine sarcoma is more aggressive and harder to treat than endometrial cancer.

Uterine cancer is the most common type of gynecologic cancer and the 4th most common cancer for women in the United States. Overall, 80.8.% of women live 5 or more years after a uterine cancer diagnosis. Despite similar diagnosis rates, 5-year survival is lower in black versus white women (62% vs 83%). Uterine cancer is one of the few cancers with increasing annual diagnoses and deaths.

Uterine Cancer Symptoms

Although these symptoms can be caused by factors other than cancer, it is important to be evaluated by a gynecologist who may recommend additional testing. The diagnosis of uterine cancer often relies on obtaining a tissue sample through a surgical procedure called a biopsy.

Risk Factors For Uterine Cancer

Uterine Cancer and Genetics

Genetic testing may be performed in two scenarios. Genetic testing may be offered to women who have a strong family history of uterine cancer. Also, it can be performed in women diagnosed with uterine cancer to help guide treatment and to determine whether family members may be at risk.

Lynch Syndrome

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