Write an article about Endometrial cancer on the rise among young women .Organize the content with appropriate headings and subheadings (h1, h2, h3, h4, h5, h6), Retain any existing tags from It is important for women to go for regular gynaecological check-ups, especially those with risk factors such as obesity, PCOS, or a family history of cancer. (Freepik pic)
KUALA LUMPUR: Endometrial cancer is now the fifth-most common cancer among women in Malaysia, with a prevalence rate of 5.6%
According to consultant obstetrician, gynaecologist, and gynae-ocologist Dr Andi Anggeriana Andi Asri, the cancer – often silent in its early stages – is increasingly affecting women below age 50, including those as young as their early 30s.
“Abnormal uterine bleeding, either after menopause or irregular bleeding, is the most common symptom,” she said, adding that other signs include pelvic pain, unexplained weight loss, pain during urination or intercourse, and unusual vaginal discharge.
“Younger women often come for fertility consultations or hormonal imbalance issues only to discover they have endometrial cancer. This revelation can be devastating, as it often happens when they are planning or have just started their families,” she said.
Obesity, sedentary lifestyles, and hormonal imbalances – especially those linked to polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) – are potential contributing factors due to elevated oestrogen levels that may thicken the uterine lining.
Andi noted, however, that if diagnosed early, endometrial cancer may be treated while sparing fertility, although this depends on the stage and grade of the tumour.
“With early diagnosis, there is a possibility to preserve the uterus and manage the cancer with hormonal therapy,” she said, explaining that this approach requires close monitoring and carries a risk of recurrence.
Dr Andi Anggeriana Andi Asri.
For those who are unable to preserve their fertility, the emotional toll can be significant for those who have not yet started or completed their families.
On treatment options and recent advancements, Andi said care is personalised based on the individual’s condition, including the cancer stage and grade, the patient’s age, and their desire to preserve fertility.
The primary treatment is surgery, which involves a total hysterectomy and possibly the removal of lymph nodes, followed by chemotherapy and radiotherapy, depending on the cancer stage. Targeted drug therapies are also available.
While robotic-assisted surgery offers effective treatment with fewer side effects, Andi stressed that early detection remains key to preserving fertility and improving outcomes.
She emphasised the importance of regular gynaecological check-ups, particularly for women with risk factors such as obesity, PCOS, or a family history of cancer.
“Young women need to stay vigilant about their reproductive health and seek medical advice at the first sign of abnormal symptoms,” she concluded. “Awareness and timely intervention are our best tools in the fight against endometrial cancer.
“The earlier, the better, so you can live a longer and fuller life.”
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