Introduction: What is Endometrial Cancer?

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynaecological cancer and begins in the endometrium or the innermost layer of the uterus. Few factors like being overweight or obese, family history, increasing age, and a diagnosis of polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS) increase a woman’s risk of developing this cancer. 

 

When detected early, endometrial cancer treatment is highly successful. The exact cause of endometrial cancer is unknown, but avoiding the risk factors and maintaining a healthy weight and BMI can reduce your risk for the condition.

How Is Endometrial Cancer Treated?

The treatment for endometrial cancer will be determined by your doctor and multidisciplinary healthcare team. 

 

Treatment options for endometrial cancer are based on the following factors:

• Stage of endometrial cancer
• The extent of its spread
• Signs and symptoms
• Tolerance of various medical procedures and medications
• Age and overall health of the individual
• Preference of treatment by the individual

 

Standard treatment options for endometrial cancer are:

• Surgery

Surgical removal of the uterus (hysteroscopy) is the most common treatment for endometrial cancer. Different surgical procedures are available, and the surgical oncologist determines the most suitable one based on case complexity and the aggressiveness of cancer.

• Radiation therapy

Radiation therapy or radiotherapy uses strong x-rays or other radiations to kill cancer cells and retard tumour growth. This therapy may be given externally or internally depending upon the characteristics of the cancer cells.

• Chemotherapy

Chemotherapy is a standard cancer treatment option that uses strong anti-cancer drugs to kill or damage cancer cells and thereby prevent their growth. Chemotherapy drugs may be given orally (by mouth), injected intravenously or injected directly into an organ or body cavity. The most suitable mode of chemotherapy will be determined by your endometrial cancer stage, the extent of spread and the aggressive nature of the cells.

• Hormone therapy

Many gynaecological cancers, including endometrial cancer, grow and increase in response to hormones. Hormone therapy uses drugs that block the action of hormones that encourage cancer growth, thereby slowing down the pace of the disease. If the diagnostic tests show that endometrial cancer responds to hormones, hormone therapy may effectively treat it.

• Targeted therapy

Similar to chemotherapy, targeted therapy uses drugs or other substances that can identify cancer cells and kill them. Since these drugs only target actively-dividing cancer cells and spare healthy ones, this treatment causes lesser side effects than other systemic treatments like chemotherapy. Monoclonal antibodies are the most commonly used drugs in treating endometrial cancer.

 

Some newer treatment options for endometrial cancer are being studied in clinical trials. If your doctor feels a new treatment may be helpful, they will recommend you to participate in a clinical trial. Discuss any queries you may have about your treatment plan and the side effects of treatments.

 

How Can Klarity Oncology Help?

At Klarity Oncology, we aim to deliver high-quality cancer care and improve the quality of life for patients and their caregivers. We help you find appointments with private endometrial cancer specialists near you, including the top oncologists in the UK. We understand the urgency of cancer care and can help you get priority second opinions, and face-to-face and video consultations at a suitable time. 

 

Endometrial cancer affects everyone differently, so treatments must be tailor-made for each patient. With a specially dedicated team at Klarity Oncology that oversees patient care, we assure you personalised treatments at the top hospitals and cancer care centres in the UK.

 

Endometrial Cancer Cost in the UK

The cost of endometrial cancer is relatively more affordable in government treatment centres and hospitals compared to private establishments. Early-stage endometrial cancers are also easier and cheaper to treat than advanced-stage cancers. While most health insurance providers cover endometrial cancer treatment, discussing your treatment costs with them is always recommended.

 

How Is Endometrial Cancer Treatment Cost Calculated?

If you have been diagnosed with endometrial cancer, your doctor will give you a rough estimate of your treatment duration and expected cost. The cost of your endometrial cancer in the UK is usually calculated based on several factors, including:

 

• Type of cancer and its stage at the time of diagnosis
• Extent of spread
• Whether it is first-time cancer or a recurrence
• Treatment options recommended
• Diagnostic tests 
• Monitoring procedures and tests required throughout treatment
• Surgical procedures involved
• Hospital stay
• Outpatient procedures and their frequency
• Medications

 

The cost of treatment given in the beginning is just an estimate. Endometrial cancer costs may vary if you need additional treatments during your cancer journey. If you have any concerns or queries, discuss them with your doctor.

 

Talk to Us

Need help with a second opinion or wish to get a different perspective on your endometrial cancer diagnosis or treatment plan? Reach out to Klarity Oncology’s cancer care team today!