Uterine cancer is cancer that affects women and is found in the reproductive organ of the uterus. Hysterectomies are common treatments for this cancer that involve removing some or all of the reproductive organs. After surgery further treatments are needed to ensure that the cancer does not spread throughout the body.
Uterine Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, uterine cancer is the highest ranking type of cancer affecting the female reproductive system. The American Cancer Society also reports that in 2009 there were more than 42,000 newly reported cases of uterine cancer in the U.S. alone. They also note that most cases are caught in the early stages and can be treated.
Hysterectomy
According to cancerfacts.com, there are two types of hysterectomies used to treat uterine cancer. During a normal hysterectomy the uterus is removed through the vagina. In an abnormal hysterectomy, which approaches through the abdomen, all of the reproductive organs are removed.
Radiation Therapy
Radiation therapy is used after a hysterectomy to target any remaining cancer cells. The goal of the treatment, which uses high doses of radiation, is to stop the cancer from spreading to other parts of the body by subverting the cells' ability to grow and multiply. Though used mostly for patients with recurring cancer, the treatment is also sometimes applied in cases of early stage cancer where the cancer cells are too difficult to reach by surgery.
Chemotherapy
Chemotherapy is another post-operation treatment for uterine cancer. It is often used in conjunction with radiation therapy and has many side effects. The treatment is used to kill rapidly dividing cells, ideally killing the cancer, but there is no differentiation between good and bad cells. Chemotherapy kills off all cells in its target area, including hair follicles and the white blood cells of the immune system.
Hormone Therapy
Hormone treatments are used to treat the side effects of losing reproductive organs during a hysterectomy. They help to replace the hormones the body is no longer making and reduce symptoms such as hot flashes and mood swings.
Tags: reproductive organs, uterine cancer, American Cancer, American Cancer Society, cancer cells, Cancer Society