Early detection is crucial for improving the survival rates of uterine cancer. When uterine cancer is detected early, the chances of successful treatment and recovery are significantly higher. However, a failure to promptly check for the possibility of uterine or endometrial cancer can lead to delays in diagnosis and treatment, allowing the disease to progress and potentially worsen the prognosis for the patient.
What are the risk factors for Endometrial (Uterine) cancer?
There are several known risk factors associated with the development of uterine cancer. Some of these risk factors cannot be changed, such as age and race. Other risk factors are related to personal choices and lifestyle, such as smoking, exercise habits, body weight, alcohol consumption, and diet. While certain factors increase a woman’s risk for developing endometrial cancer, it’s important to note that having one or more risk factors does not guarantee the development of the disease. Likewise, some women with endometrial cancer may not have any known risk factors.
Factors that can influence the risk of developing endometrial (uterine) cancer include:
- Hormone-related factors: Factors that affect hormone levels, such as using estrogen after menopause, taking birth control pills, using tamoxifen (a medication commonly used to treat breast cancer), the number of menstrual cycles over a lifetime, pregnancy, certain ovarian tumors, polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS), and obesity.
- Use of an intrauterine device: The use of an intrauterine device (IUD) for contraception has been associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer.
- Family history: Having close relatives with endometrial or colorectal cancer can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer.
- Personal history of breast or ovarian cancer: Women who have previously been diagnosed with breast or ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer.
- History of endometrial hyperplasia: Endometrial hyperplasia, a condition characterized by the abnormal overgrowth of the endometrium, can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer.
- Pelvic radiation therapy: Undergoing radiation therapy to the pelvis as a treatment for another type of cancer can increase the risk of developing endometrial cancer.
- Age: The risk of developing endometrial cancer increases with age, with most cases diagnosed after menopause.
- Diet and exercise: Poor diet and lack of physical activity may contribute to an increased risk of endometrial cancer.
- Diabetes: Women with diabetes may have a higher risk of developing endometrial cancer.
We urge you to consult with us as soon as you suspect you have been subject to medical malpractice We don’t expect you to come to us knowing all the answers—that’s our job. We are continually educating ourselves and keeping up to date with the most current legal changes and news so that we may better serve your needs. Our malpractice attorneys have the experience, expertise and breadth of knowledge to pursue failure to diagnose cancer cases of merit.
O’Connor, Parsons, Lane & Noble is one of the most-established and best-known medical malpractice law firms in New Jersey. The initial consultation is free, confidential, and you are under no obligation. Contact us online or call at 1-908-251-9368 or 1-800-586-5817