Endometrial Cancer Overview

Endometrial Cancer Overview

• Often detected early through symptoms like vaginal bleeding outside of menstrual cycles or after menopause.

Contributing Factors

• Obesity: Increases risk three-fold for women 21 to 50 lbs overweight.
• Nulliparity: Having never given birth increases risk.
• Late Menopause: Onset after the typical age can elevate risk.

Manifestations

• Postmenopausal bleeding is a significant warning sign.
• Women may experience other forms of abnormal bleeding.

Diagnostic Screening

• No specific screening test is available; an endometrial biopsy is performed for diagnosis.
• All women at menopause should be educated about risks and symptoms associated with endometrial cancer.

Collaborative Care

• Treatment Options:
  • Radium therapy and X-ray therapy are common.
  • Hysterectomy may be necessary.

Nursing Interventions

• Assess for signs of grief in patients.
• Provide comprehensive pre-operative teaching to prepare patients.
• Offer post-operative care to ensure recovery.
• Evaluate and address psychosexual needs post-treatment.

Internal Radiation Therapy Considerations

• For younger patients with pelvic cancers, discuss potential impacts on sexuality and infertility before starting radiation.
• Teach about options such as sperm banking or egg-harvesting, if suitable.