Early detection of uterine cancer

When uterine cancer is detected and treated early, the chances of successful treatment are better. Recognizing symptoms and getting regular checkups are the best ways to detect uterine cancer early. The sooner symptoms are reported, the sooner a doctor can diagnose and treat the cancer.

A Pap test is done to screen for cervical cancer, but it can sometimes detect uterine cancer. However, this test will miss many cases of uterine cancer because the Pap smear scrape does not reach the inside of the uterus.

High-risk individuals

Women who are at higher than average risk of developing uterine cancer may need to be tested more often than women with average risk. Examples of what puts a woman at higher than average risk include:

• having atypical endometrial hyperplasia (abnormal cells in the lining of the uterus)
• taking tamoxifen (Nolvadex, Tamofen) for breast cancer
• having an inherited cancer syndrome, such as hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC) or Cowden syndrome

Women who are at higher than average risk should talk to their doctor about a personal plan for testing. A personal plan of testing may include:

• regular gynecological examinations
• endometrial biopsy

See a list of questions to ask your doctor about early detection.