Uterine Cancer

Uterine cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system in the United States. This year, about 40,000 women will be diagnosed with uterine cancer and more than 95 percent will be endometrial cancers, which affect the lining of the uterus (endometrium).

Most uterine cancers develop over a period of years and may arise from less serious problems such as endometrial hyperplasia. Although the majority of uterine cancers occur in postmenopausal women, up to 25 percent may occur before menopause. The survival rate for all stages of uterine cancer is approximately 84 percent, but if diagnosed at its earliest stage, survival increases to 90-95 percent.

Fortunately, most uterine cancers are discovered early because of warning signs such as irregular or postmenopausal bleeding. Awareness of these symptoms is important for both women and their physicians.