“Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer affecting women in Singapore, and its incidence has been increasing steadily over the last decade.”

Understanding Uterine Cancer Singapore

Uterine cancer is a significant health concern for women in Singapore. The numbers are rising—according to the Singapore Cancer Registry, the age-standardised incidence rate has nearly doubled in two decades, from 9.5 per 100,000 in 1998–2002 to 18.1 per 100,000 in 2016–2020. Each year, hundreds of women face this diagnosis, and early detection can make all the difference.

What Is Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer refers to any malignancy that develops in the uterus, the muscular organ responsible for carrying a pregnancy. There are two main types:

• Endometrial cancer: The most common, arising from the lining (endometrium) of the uterus.
• Uterine sarcoma: A rarer form, developing in the muscle or supporting tissues of the uterus.

Endometrial cancer accounts for about 80–90% of all uterine cancers globally, and the same trend holds true for uterine cancer Singapore.

Uterine Cancer Singapore: Incidence and Trends

• Uterine cancer is the fourth most common cancer among women in Singapore.
• Over 2,900 new cases were reported between 2016 and 2020.
• The majority of cases are diagnosed in women aged 45–64, but it can occur earlier or later.
• The incidence is rising, likely due to lifestyle changes, increased awareness, and better diagnostic tools.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Early detection is crucial. Most cases of uterine cancer Singapore are diagnosed at an early stage, which dramatically improves outcomes. Key symptoms include:

• Irregular or abnormal vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause
• Pelvic pain or pressure
• Unusual vaginal discharge

If you notice any of these symptoms, seek medical attention promptly. Uterine cancer is highly curable when caught early.

Diagnosis and Staging

Diagnosis typically involves:

• Pelvic examination
• Ultrasound imaging
• Endometrial biopsy

Staging is essential to guide treatment. Most uterine cancer Singapore cases are found at Stage I or II, meaning the cancer is still confined to the uterus or nearby tissues.

Treatment Options in Singapore

The gold standard for early-stage uterine cancer Singapore is surgery:

• Total hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus
• Bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy: Removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes
• Pelvic lymphadenectomy: Removal of pelvic lymph nodes for staging and prognosis

Surgical staging helps doctors decide if additional treatments like radiation or chemotherapy are needed. About 10% of women with cancer confined to the uterus are found to have spread to pelvic lymph nodes, which may change the treatment approach.

Prognosis and Survival

The outlook for uterine cancer Singapore is generally positive, especially for early-stage disease. Survival rates are high when the cancer is detected before it spreads. However, certain subtypes, such as papillary serous or clear cell carcinoma, carry a poorer prognosis and may require more aggressive treatment.

Prevention and Risk Reduction

While not all cases can be prevented, you can reduce your risk by:

• Maintaining a healthy weight
• Managing diabetes and hypertension
• Reporting abnormal bleeding promptly

Regular check-ups and awareness are your best defense.

Support and Resources

Facing uterine cancer Singapore can be overwhelming, but you are not alone. Singapore offers robust support networks, including the Singapore Cancer Society and specialized gynecological oncology departments at major hospitals.

Take Action: Your Health Matters

If you or a loved one are concerned about uterine cancer Singapore, don’t wait. Early detection saves lives. For more in-depth information and guidance on related conditions, explore our comprehensive resource on uterine cancer singapore.