Endometrial cancer develops when cells in the lining of the uterus grow and multiply in an abnormal way. Over time, these cells can form a tumor. Several factors can contribute:

• Hormonal changes, especially too much estrogen without enough progesterone
  
• Genetic influences or inherited conditions
  
• Obesity and diabetes, which can affect hormone balance
  

It’s important to remember that having one or more risk factors does not mean you will definitely develop cancer.

The most common early sign is abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause or between periods. Other symptoms include:

• Pelvic pain or a feeling of pressure
  
• Unexplained weight changes
  
• Fatigue that does not improve with rest
  

If you notice these symptoms, seek medical advice promptly. Early recognition makes endometrial cancer treatment more effective.

Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing this cancer:

• Family history of endometrial or colorectal cancer
  
• Hormonal imbalance or estrogen exposure without progesterone
  
• Obesity, diabetes, and high blood pressure
  
• Age (risk rises after menopause)
  
• Never having been pregnant or late menopause
  

Being aware of these risk factors helps you and your doctor make informed choices about monitoring and prevention.

Doctors classify the disease into four stages, ranging from cancer limited to the uterus (Stage I) to cancer that has spread to distant organs (Stage IV).

Stage I

• Cancer is found only inside the uterus.
  
• This is the earliest stage and often highly treatable with surgery.
  
• Five-year survival rates are very favorable, often above 90%.
  

Stage II

• Cancer has spread from the lining of the uterus into the cervical tissue, but it has not gone beyond the uterus.
  
• Surgery is usually the first step, sometimes followed by radiation or hormone therapy.
  

Stage III

• Cancer has spread beyond the uterus but remains within the pelvic area (e.g., ovaries, fallopian tubes, vagina, or nearby lymph nodes).
• Endometrial cancer treatment by stage here may include surgery, radiation, and chemotherapy.
  

Stage IV

• Cancer has spread to the bladder, bowel, or distant organs such as the lung cancer or liver.
  
• Treatment often combines surgery with chemotherapy, radiation, or newer therapies like immunotherapy.
  
• While this is the most advanced stage, treatment can still help manage symptoms and improve quality of life.

Understanding stages is essential for endometrial cancer staging and treatment, because treatment plans are personalized based on how far the cancer has progressed.

For most women, surgery is the first step in endometrial cancer treatment. This usually involves removing the uterus (hysterectomy) and sometimes the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

• Minimally invasive surgery (laparoscopic or robotic) allows faster recovery with smaller incisions.
  
• Open surgery may be recommended if the cancer is more advanced.
  

Your doctor will guide you to the option best suited to your situation.

Once diagnosis is confirmed, your care team will review pathology results, determine the stage, and discuss treatment choices. This is the time to ask questions, understand your options, and create a personalized care plan.

Endometrial cancer treatment by stage is carefully designed to match each woman’s needs:

• Surgery – the primary treatment in most cases

• Radiation therapy – to target remaining cancer cells

• Chemotherapy – often used for higher-stage cancers

• Hormone therapy – slows the growth of cancer cells that depend on hormones

• Immunotherapy – sometimes considered for advanced or recurrent cases

For many women, endometrial cancer treatment after surgery may include radiation, chemotherapy, or hormone therapy to reduce the chance of recurrence.

Advances in surgical techniques mean many women can have laparoscopic or robotic surgery, leading to shorter hospital stays, smaller scars, and faster recovery. Your care team will ensure that the surgical approach chosen balances safety, effectiveness, and quality of life.

Common surgical procedures include:

• Hysterectomy – removal of the uterus, which is the primary site of cancer.

• Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy – removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries, often done at the same time as hysterectomy.

• Lymph node assessment – checking lymph nodes in the pelvis or abdomen to see if cancer has spread.

While not all cases can be prevented, women can reduce their risk with healthy lifestyle choices:

• Maintain a balanced diet and regular physical activity

• Manage weight and blood sugar levels

• Avoid smoking and limit alcohol

• Stay consistent with gynecological checkups

• Consider genetic counseling if you have a strong family history

Awareness and timely care make a huge difference. Understanding the signs, knowing your risk factors, and seeking medical attention early can lead to effective endometrial cancer treatment and better long-term outcomes. With preventive care, regular screenings, and personalized treatment, women can protect their health and look forward to long, fulfilling lives.