Unusual bleeding? Don't dismiss it: UAE doctors on signs of uterus cancer women may overlook
‘If only’ can be two of the most piercing words in the English language — especially when they come from wishing you had seen a doctor sooner, before cancer had a chance to take hold. Yet, Dubai-based Nainika’s (name changed on request) mother who doesn’t wish to be named, is trying to be positive and ‘steer’ ahead, as she says. Nainika recalls the many warning signs from months ago: Fatigue and…
Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, can often be overlooked due to its symptoms being easily mistaken for ordinary hormonal changes. Fatigue and severe abdominal pain are common initial signs, but many women do not seek medical attention. Doctors stress that any new or unusual bleeding, especially after menopause, should not be dismissed as a normal part of aging.
Endometrial cancer is more prevalent after menopause, but it can also affect younger women. Risk factors include age, obesity, diabetes, high blood pressure, polycystic ovary syndrome, prolonged exposure to estrogen without progesterone, and a personal or family history of certain cancers. One often overlooked risk factor is irregular or infrequent periods over many years, as the lining of the uterus may be exposed to estrogen for longer periods.
Women taking tamoxifen may also experience abnormal bleeding and should consult their doctor if they notice any changes. Symptoms to watch for include bleeding between periods, heavier or longer periods, recurrent unexplained spotting, a sudden change in the menstrual pattern, new watery discharge, persistent pelvic pain or pressure, and bleeding after menopause.
If any of these symptoms persist or are unusual for the individual, it is crucial to consult a doctor for a proper evaluation.
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