Endometrial cancer is known as the "silent killer" because its early symptoms are subtle, yet the body still sends warning signals!

Research has found that when the body frequently exhibits four abnormal signs, it may indicate that endometrial cancer has progressed to an advanced stage.

In summary, abnormal bleeding, abdominal pain, changes in urination, and unexplained weight loss are four warning signs that every woman should be vigilant about. Early recognition can save lives.

Abnormal Uterine Bleeding—The Most Easily Overlooked Danger Signal

Many women notice changes in their menstrual patterns or experience vaginal bleeding after menopause, often mistakenly attributing it to endocrine disorders and delaying medical consultation. Abnormal uterine bleeding is the most common symptom of endometrial cancer, particularly postmenopausal bleeding and menstrual cycle irregularities.

When cancerous tissue grows in the endometrium, it disrupts the normal endometrial structure, leading to irregular shedding and bleeding. As the tumor progresses, the amount of bleeding may increase, the duration may lengthen, and blood clots may appear.

It is worth noting that early-stage bleeding can be very mild, presenting only as pinkish discharge or brownish bloodstains, but this is already a distress signal from the uterus.

When the tumor penetrates the uterine muscle layer or spreads to other tissues, the bleeding situation becomes more complex and difficult to control.

Lower Abdominal Pain and Lumbosacral Soreness—Warnings of Tumor Progression

When patients experience persistent lower abdominal pain or sacroiliac discomfort, it often indicates that the tumor has progressed to a certain stage. Early-stage endometrial carcinoma typically does not cause pain, but as the tumor grows, it may compress nerves or invade surrounding tissues, leading to pain.

As the tumor continues to grow and invades tissues adjacent to the uterus or compresses pelvic nerves, the pain may radiate to the lower limbs. If the tumor blocks the cervical os, leading to hematometra or pyometra, it may cause paroxysmal colicky pain.

Advanced-stage patients may also experience unilateral or bilateral lower limb pain or edema, suggesting that the tumor may have invaded the pelvic sidewall and affected lymphatic drainage.

This type of pain is typically persistent and refractory, with limited response to conventional pain management measures, serving as an important indicator of disease progression.

Changes in Urination Habits and Pelvic Discomfort—Signs of Tumor Compression

Some women experience worsening symptoms of urinary frequency and urgency, or feel a sense of pelvic pressure, which may not be a simple urinary tract infection. As endometrial cancer progresses, the enlarging uterus can compress the bladder, reducing its storage capacity and leading to urinary frequency.

When the tumor invades the bladder or ureters, it may cause urinary tract obstruction, leading to hydronephrosis or even kidney damage. At the same time, tumor compression on the rectum can cause constipation, tenesmus, or painful bowel movements.

These changes in urinary and bowel habits are often overlooked or misdiagnosed as benign conditions, but when they co-occur with abnormal uterine bleeding, a high degree of suspicion for endometrial cancer should be raised.

Advanced-stage patients may also experience lower limb edema, suggesting the tumor may have affected pelvic lymphatic drainage.

Involuntary weight loss and systemic symptoms – late-stage manifestations

Persistent weight loss accompanied by fatigue and loss of appetite without intentional dieting may be a sign of advanced endometrial cancer. The tumor's growth consumes substantial energy and may produce inflammatory factors that disrupt metabolic balance, leading to the loss of muscle and fat tissue.

Patients with advanced endometrial cancer often experience cancer-related fatigue, which differs from ordinary tiredness and is not easily relieved by rest.

Furthermore, the tumor may affect digestive system function, leading to early satiety, nausea, or impaired nutrient absorption, which further exacerbates weight loss and debilitation.

When distant metastasis occurs, depending on the site of metastasis, symptoms such as coughing or bone pain may also appear. These systemic manifestations indicate that the disease has extended beyond the local area, necessitating a more aggressive treatment strategy.

Recommendations and Screening Reminder

Women should pay attention to physical changes and seek medical attention promptly if the above symptoms occur. High-risk groups (such as those with obesity, diabetes, hypertension, infertility, delayed menopause, or a family history) should undergo regular gynecological examinations.

Ultrasound is a commonly used screening method, and new detection technologies such as serum markers HE4 and CA125 testing can also assist in diagnosis.

Maintaining a healthy weight, eating a balanced diet, limiting high-fat foods, and increasing intake of vegetables and fruits can reduce the risk of disease. Postmenopausal women should use hormone replacement therapy cautiously and only under the guidance of a doctor when necessary.