Uterine Cancer

Your care team at Miami Cancer Institute is made up of world-renowned oncologists who are experts in compassionate, effective cancer care. They will work side-by-side with you to develop a plan that fits your individual needs. 

Our gynecologic cancer specialists have access to a range of cutting-edge technologies as well as weekly, multidisciplinary tumor boards where our gynecologic experts can collaborate on treatment plans.

The gynecologic oncologists at Miami Cancer Institute provide advanced whole-patient care. Each individualized care plan includes innovative treatments as well as services to address your entire journey as a patient, including nutritional advice, physical therapy and pain management services.

What is uterine cancer?

Uterine cancer is a disease in which cancerous (malignant) cells form in the uterus. These cancerous cells typically begin in the lining of the uterus known as the endometrium. Cancer that forms in the muscle of the uterus is known as uterine sarcoma.

In the United States, uterine cancer is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system and usually affects women after menopause.

The uterus is the hollow, pear-shaped organ where a fetus grows during pregnancy.

What are the types of uterine cancer?

The most common type of uterine cancer is endometrioid adenocarcinoma. These cancers form in the glandular cells of the uterine lining.

Other forms of uterine cancer include:

• Serous adenocarcinoma. This type is more likely to spread to other parts of the body and lymph nodes.
• Adenosquamous carcinoma. This is a rare type of uterine cancer that has features of both adenocarcinomas and carcinomas of the squamous cells, which line the outside of the uterus.
• Carcinomasarcoma. This is another rare form of uterine cancer. It has elements of sarcoma and adenocarcinoma and is more likely to spread.

What are the risk factors for uterine cancer?

The most common risk factor for uterine cancer is obesity. Women who have high levels of estrogen (usually from taking hormone replacement therapy) also have a high risk of developing the disease.

Other risk factors may include:

• Being between the ages of 50 and 60.
• Having metabolic syndrome.
• Starting your period before age 12.
• Having a history of infertility.
• Never giving birth.
• Entering menopause after age 52.
• Having high blood pressure.
• Having diabetes.
• Having a family history of uterine cancer.
• Inheriting a genetic syndrome that may increase your risk for cancer, such as Lynch syndrome or mutations in the BRCA gene.
• Having an ovarian disease, such as polycystic ovarian syndrome.
• Having endometrial hyperplasia.
• Taking the drug tamoxifen after menopause.

What can you do to prevent uterine cancer?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent cancer. However, you can reduce your risk for uterine cancer by:

• Not using tobacco. Speak with your doctor if you need help quitting.
• Exercising regularly.
• Eating a healthy diet, which includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy. Talk with your doctor or a nutritionist about what you should include in a healthy diet.
• Using oral contraceptives.
• Keeping a healthy weight. Ask your doctor what a healthy weight is for you.
• Seeing your doctor or gynecologist for regular check-ups.
• Asking your doctor about genetic testing and screening recommendations if you have an inherited disease that increases your risk for uterine cancer.

Is uterine cancer screening available?

While there is no standard screening for uterine cancer, you and your doctor can discuss a screening regimen if you have a high risk of developing uterine cancer due to genetic risk factors. At Miami Cancer Institute, our clinical genetics service can help identify patients at a high risk for developing certain gynecologic cancers.