According to estimates by the American Cancer Society, U.S. physicians will diagnose 49,560 cases of uterine cancer in 2013. Typically, this type of cancer originates in the endometrium, or lining of the uterus. Endometrial carcinomas can be classified as one of two kinds. The most common form, Type I malignancies, typically present in early stages in pre- and peri-menopausal women, are associated with prolonged estrogen exposure, and have a good prognosis. Type II tumors occur in post-menopausal women, appear in more advanced stages, are not linked to estrogen, and have a worse prognosis. The two types also differ in their molecular structure.

2. According to estimates by the American Cancer
Society, U.S. physicians will diagnose 49,560 cases of
uterine cancer in 2013. Typically, this type of cancer
originates in the endometrium, or lining of the uterus.
Endometrial carcinomas can be classified as one of
two kinds. The most common form, Type I
malignancies, typically present in early stages in pre-
and peri-menopausal women, are associated with
prolonged estrogen exposure, and have a good
prognosis. Type II tumors occur in post-menopausal
women, appear in more advanced stages, are not
linked to estrogen, and have a worse prognosis. The
two types also differ in their molecular structure.

3. Uterine papillary serous carcinoma (UPSC), which belongs
in the latter group, is a biologically aggressive form that is
treated surgically, beginning with a laparotomy, or
minimally invasive abdominal exploration. A surgeon then
performs a total hysterectomy and a bilateral removal of
the fallopian tubes and ovaries, as well as dissections of
certain lymph nodes in the pelvic area. Extreme cases
may warrant removal of part of the stomach lining too.
Medical professionals may recommend additional
therapy after surgery in the form of radiation or
chemotherapy to avoid recurrence. Because there is no
standard screening test for endometrial cancer, women,
especially those who are post-menopausal, should report
any bleeding or spotting to their physicians.

4. Dr. Matthew Withiam-Leitch has spent his
entire career at the University at Buffalo
School of Medicine and Biomedical
Sciences as both a practicing OB-GYN
and a Research Associate Professor.