Many women falsely believe that a Pap test^? screens for uterine cancer. In fact, Pap tests only detect cervical irregularities. Currently, there is no effective screening test for uterine cancer.

The best defense against uterine cancer is education and awareness. Most women exhibit noticeable symptoms early in the disease’s development. By knowing what to look for, you can catch uterine cancer when it’s most treatable.

What You Can Do

The best way to prevent uterine cancer is to use common sense. For example, exercise regularly, eat healthy foods and maintain a healthy body weight. And if you have prolonged or unusual bleeding, see your doctor.

Another important factor in staying one step ahead of uterine cancer is understanding the roll played by estrogen and progesterone. If you’re currently going through menopause^?, review hormone replacement therapy with your doctor. If you have not gone through menopause, your doctor may recommend that you take birth control pills.

Lastly, know your family history. Do you have a first, second or third degree relative who developed one of these cancers?

-Colon cancer

-Uterine cancer

-Ovarian cancer

-Pancreatic cancer

-Biliary tree carcinomas (Lynch Syndrome II)

If so, you may be more likely to develop uterine cancer.

Last Updated on Tuesday, 10 August 2010 13:31