Cancers of the uterine body are most commonly diagnosed in middle-aged and older women. Over 90% originate from the endometrium (i.e., endometrial cancer), while the remaining cases arise from the muscle layer (i.e., malignant uterine sarcoma). According to 2023 statistics, there are approximately 1,300 new cases of uterine body cancer diagnosed each year in Hong Kong, and around 100 deaths are reported annually due to endometrial cancer. Endometrial cancer develops as a result of abnormal growth of cells in the endometrium. These abnormal cells can invade surrounding tissues and may even spread to other parts of the body.
Dr. Chai Yu Ka, a specialist in Specialist in Obstetrics and Gynaecology at Chiron Medical, notes that early-stage endometrial cancer may present symptoms, but many women may mistake them for normal physiological changes. For women who have not yet reached menopause, symptoms may include irregular menstruation, heavy menstrual bleeding, or bleeding between periods. For postmenopausal women, abnormal vaginal bleeding or unusual vaginal discharge may occur. As the disease progresses, symptoms in later stages may include pain during intercourse or urination, changes in bowel habits, and the appearance of a pelvic mass.
While the exact cause of endometrial cancer is not yet fully understood, several risk factors are believed to be associated with the disease. Age is a major risk factor—the condition is more commonly seen in women aged 45 to 65. Other high-risk factors include having never given birth, obesity, long-term use of hormone replacement therapy containing oestrogen, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), and use of tamoxifen (a medication used in breast cancer treatment). Women with Lynch syndrome (hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer syndrome) are also at higher risk. In addition, a family history of breast cancer, ovarian cancer, or colorectal cancer further increases risk.
Dr. Chai explains that unlike cervical cancer, endometrial cancer and ovarian cancer do not have established screening programmes. Therefore, women should seek medical attention promptly if they notice abnormal vaginal bleeding—especially bleeding after menopause. Early and thorough examinations are crucial. Diagnostic approaches may include pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, hysteroscopy, endometrial sampling, or dilation and curettage (D&C).
If endometrial cancer is detected early and treated appropriately, the survival rate can be above 90%.
Treatment for endometrial cancer is typically determined according to the stage of the cancer, tumour size, and the patient’s overall health. Common treatment methods include surgery, chemotherapy, radiotherapy, hormone therapy, targeted therapy, and immunotherapy. Surgery usually involves removing the uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and relevant lymph nodes. Depending on individual circumstances, the procedure may be performed via open surgery, vaginal surgery, or laparoscopy.
Chemotherapy uses medications to destroy cancer cells, though these drugs can also affect normal cells, leading to side effects. Radiotherapy uses high-energy radiation to damage cancer cells. Hormone therapy works by suppressing tumour growth through synthetic progestins. With advances in medical science, new treatments such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy have also gained increasing attention. These therapies target specific characteristics of cancer cells, improving precision and overall treatment effectiveness.
Dr. Chai’s final reminder is that maintaining healthy lifestyle habits and undergoing regular health examinations are important steps in reducing the risk of uterine body cancer.
Last Updated: November 2025
The health information on this website has been reviewed by doctors of the Chiron Medical Group. The content is for reference only and should not be considered medical advice. It cannot replace consultation with qualified healthcare professionals regarding your personal health condition.
