Vijayawada, 20th September 2024: Endometrial cancer, one of the most common gynecological cancers, is seeing a significant rise in Andhra Pradesh, according to Dr. Dharmendra Kumar V, a leading surgical oncologist and robotic surgeon at Manipal Super Speciality Hospital, Vijayawada. Once predominantly affecting elderly women, the disease is now increasingly being diagnosed in younger women as well. Hospitals across the state, particularly in cities like Vijayawada, Tirupati, and Rajahmundry, have reported a surge in cases of gynecological cancers, with endometrial cancer standing out as a growing concern.
Dr. Dharmendra emphasized the importance of early diagnosis in effectively treating endometrial cancer, especially with the availability of advanced medical technologies like the da Vinci robotic system. “Delayed diagnosis can lead to serious consequences,” he warned, speaking on the occasion of World Gynaecologic Oncology Day, a day healthcare experts are using to advocate for greater awareness about gynecological cancers.
“In recent years, India has witnessed a notable increase in gynecological cancers like cervical, ovarian, and endometrial cancer, posing a significant health challenge for women. Particularly in urban areas, the number of patients diagnosed with endometrial cancer has nearly doubled, from 4-5 cases per month to 8-10 cases. This rise can be largely attributed to changes in dietary habits, especially the increased consumption of fatty foods, and a lack of physical activity, leading to obesity,” Dr. Dharmendra explained.
He further highlighted the role of genetics, stating that women with a family history of breast cancer or other gynecological conditions are at a higher risk due to genetic mutations. “While endometrial cancer used to be predominantly diagnosed in women aged 60 to 65, it’s now increasingly being found in younger women, particularly between the ages of 40 and 55.”
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, alcohol consumption, and the use of oral contraceptives, have also contributed to the growing incidence of this cancer among younger women.
Dr. Dharmendra urged women to remain vigilant about common symptoms of endometrial cancer, including intermenstrual bleeding, heavy periods, and extreme menstrual pain. “Many women tend to ignore these symptoms due to a lack of awareness or personal priorities. It’s crucial to seek medical attention if these signs appear, as timely diagnosis and treatment can significantly improve outcomes and quality of life.”
Advances in robotic-assisted surgery, particularly the da Vinci system, have revolutionized treatment for endometrial cancer. “For women diagnosed at stages one, two, or even three, robotic-assisted surgery offers improved surgical precision and faster recovery. The system provides surgeons with three-dimensional views and unparalleled accuracy. The firefly technology used in robotic-assisted surgery helps distinguish cancerous tissues from healthy ones, allowing the surgeon to remove the affected areas while preserving healthy tissue. This technology significantly reduces recovery time—patients can return to their normal lives in just four days, compared to the 10-15 days required with traditional surgeries. They also experience less pain and blood loss, greatly enhancing their overall quality of life,” said Dr. Dharmendra.
In conclusion, Dr. Dharmendra stressed the importance of awareness, early screening, and access to advanced treatments. “Educating women about the symptoms of endometrial cancer and ensuring they undergo diagnostic tests like ultrasonography can help catch the disease early. Access to cutting-edge treatments, such as robotic-assisted surgery, will be crucial in combating the rising incidence of gynecological cancers in the state.”
