Figures released by Cancer Research UK this week show a steep increase in the number of women dying of womb or uterine cancer. The charity says that the figures have increased by 20 per cent over the last decade with 1,900 deaths a year. At the Millennium, the figure was 1,500.
However there was some more positive news with Cancer Research UK saying that despite the increase, the survival rate had increased with 77 percent of women with womb cancer living for five years or more.
It was in the mid-nineties that the figures started to sharply increase, rising by 43%.
Symptoms of womb cancer can include abnormal discharge and post-menopausal bleeding. Other symptoms can include stomach pain, swelling and weight loss. However, these can also be symptoms other illnesses and it is advised that women get advice from a doctor if they have any of these symptoms.
The obesity epidemic could be playing a part in the increase as being overweight can increase a woman's chances of developing the disease.
Sara Hiom, director of information at Cancer Research UK, said:
“Despite survival rates continuing to improve, these worrying figures show more women are still dying from womb cancer. This appears to be related to a rise in the incidence of womb cancer, so it’s essential women receive support to help them reduce their risk."
“Maintaining a healthy bodyweight can halve a woman’s risk of womb cancer and is one of the best ways to protect against the disease. Women should also be aware of the symptoms of womb cancer which include abnormal vaginal bleeding – especially for post-menopausal women - abdominal pain and pain during sex."
“Although these symptoms don’t usually mean cancer, as they could be signs of more common conditions like fibroids or endometriosis, it’s still vital to get them checked by a doctor. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more likely treatment will be successful.”
However there was some more positive news with Cancer Research UK saying that despite the increase, the survival rate had increased with 77 percent of women with womb cancer living for five years or more.
It was in the mid-nineties that the figures started to sharply increase, rising by 43%.
Symptoms of womb cancer can include abnormal discharge and post-menopausal bleeding. Other symptoms can include stomach pain, swelling and weight loss. However, these can also be symptoms other illnesses and it is advised that women get advice from a doctor if they have any of these symptoms.
The obesity epidemic could be playing a part in the increase as being overweight can increase a woman's chances of developing the disease.
Sara Hiom, director of information at Cancer Research UK, said:
“Despite survival rates continuing to improve, these worrying figures show more women are still dying from womb cancer. This appears to be related to a rise in the incidence of womb cancer, so it’s essential women receive support to help them reduce their risk."
“Maintaining a healthy bodyweight can halve a woman’s risk of womb cancer and is one of the best ways to protect against the disease. Women should also be aware of the symptoms of womb cancer which include abnormal vaginal bleeding – especially for post-menopausal women - abdominal pain and pain during sex."
“Although these symptoms don’t usually mean cancer, as they could be signs of more common conditions like fibroids or endometriosis, it’s still vital to get them checked by a doctor. The earlier the disease is diagnosed, the more likely treatment will be successful.”
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