Understanding Uterus Cancer

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Understanding Uterus Cancer

Uterus cancer, as the name suggests, affects the uterus in women. It develops in the inner lining of the organ and eventually spreads to other parts of the region. If detected early, uterus cancer can be managed effectively, ensuring minimal symptoms and healthy life.

Cancer has recently become synonymous with deteriorating health and fatal outcomes. The challenging part about treating cancer, especially in its advanced stages, is that cancer cells spread throughout the body. Hence, doctors find it difficult to target and eliminate them. Many government and non-government organisations have started educational drives about cancer symptoms to help people identify and diagnose cancer early to ensure optimum treatment. In India, lakhs of new cancer patients are diagnosed yearly in the advanced stage of the disease. To reverse this trend, educational and awareness campaigns might help and enable cancer patients to live a better quality of life.

Cancer treatments can be costly, including the treatment for uterus cancer. Further, since most cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, the treatment involves a combination of surgery, radiation, chemotherapy, and hormone therapy. The patient is usually hospitalised for a few days and has to take medicines and go for check-ups regularly. Apart from being psychologically stressful, this period can also strain the finances.

Hence, it is important to have health insurance that takes care of the costs of treatment, surgery, and hospitalisation. TATA AIG offers a comprehensive health insurance plan that covers these costs and allows patients to focus on the treatment and getting better instead of the financial aspects. The medical insurance offered by TATA AIG also includes a range of add-on covers like critical illness cover for cancer to help safeguard your financial interests on being diagnosed with it.

In this article, we will talk about the symptoms, causes, treatment, and importance of a health insurance plan for Uterus Cancer.

What is Uterus Cancer?

The uterus is an important part of the female reproductive system. It plays a central role during pregnancy and holds the child until birth. Physiologically, the inner lining of the uterus becomes thick during a menstrual cycle to hold the fertilised egg and support pregnancy. The hormone estrogen causes thickening. If the woman does not conceive, this thick inner lining is shed during menstruation.

In some women, the cells start growing and thickening abnormally, resulting in the formation of a tumor. When this tumour becomes cancerous, the woman is diagnosed with uterus cancer.

Types of Uterus Cancer

There are two types of Uterus Cancer, as described below:

Endometrial Cancer

One of the most common types of uterus cancer is endometrial cancer. This cancer starts in the cells of the endometrium. It is usually detected early since its symptoms include vagina bleeding or abnormal vaginal discharge. There are two main subtypes of endometrial cancer:

Type of Endometrial Cancer Description
Type 1 endometrial cancer Around 80% of all endometrial cancers are Type 1. It grows slowly and depends on the body’s hormone production for growth. Its detection is early too making it easier to treat and get better outcomes for the patient.
Type 2 endometrial cancer This is a rarer type of endometrial cancer and grows faster than Type 1. Also, it is hormone-independent. Being more aggressive, it does not have a good prognosis compared to Type 1 cases.

Uterine Sarcoma
Some uterus cancers can start in the connective tissues of muscle cells of the uterus. These cancers are called uterine sarcomas. They are more aggressive than endometrial cancers and difficult to treat. Usually, uterine sarcomas are difficult to diagnose until their advanced stages as they do not have any specific symptoms in their early stage. Here are some subtypes of

Uterine sarcomas:

Type of Uterine Cancer Prevalence Description
Leiomyosarcoma Nearly 40% of all uterine sarcoma cases This cancer starts in the smooth muscle cells of the uterus and can spread to other parts of the body. It is usually difficult to treat and has a poor prognosis.
Endometrial stromal sarcoma Nearly 15% of all uterine sarcoma cases It starts in the connective tissue of the uterus. It grows slowly and if detected in time, offers an opportunity to be treated effectively using surgery.
Undifferentiated sarcoma Rare Its diagnosis is difficult and the treatment requires a combination of surgery, chemotherapy, and radiation therapy.

Uterus Cancer Stages

As is the case with most other cancers, uterus cancer stages are determined based on how much it has spread in the body. The most accepted staging system is the FIGO (International Federation of Gynecology and Obstetrics) system. Here are the different stages of uterus cancer based on this system:

Stage Description
Stage 0 This is the first stage of uterus cancer where the cancer cells are present only in the endometrium and have not spread to the other parts of the uterus or surrounding tissues.
Stage I In this stage, the cancer cells have spread beyond the endometrium but are confined within the uterus. It has two sub-types:
  • Stage IA: the cancer cells are confined to the endometrium and have not invaded the underlying muscles; and

  • Stage IB: the cancer cells have invaded the underlying muscles.
  • Stage II In this stage, the cancer cells have spread beyond the uterus but are restricted to the cervix.
    Stage III In this stage, the cancer cells have spread beyond the uterus and cervix but are still confined to the pelvic area. It has two sub-types:
  • Stage IIIA: the cancer cells have spread to the outer layer of the uterus or even the ovaries and fallopian tubes; and

  • Stage IIIB: the cancer cells have affected the vagina.
  • Stage IV In this stage, the cancer cells have spread to distant parts of the body, such as the lungs or bones. It has two sub-types:
  • Stage IVA: the cancer cells have spread to nearby organs like the bladder or bowel; and

  • Stage IVB: the cancer cells have spread to distant organs like the lungs or liver.
  • Uterus Cancer Symptoms

    Understanding the symptoms is the first step towards seeking medical attention and diagnosing the disease. It can also be the difference between effective treatment and avoidable complications. Here are the symptoms of both types of uterus cancer:**

    Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer:

    • Abnormal vaginal bleeding

    • Pelvic pain or discomfort

    • Pain during sex

    • Unintended weight loss

    • Abnormal vaginal discharge

    Symptoms of Uterine Sarcoma:

    • Pelvic pain or pressure

    • Abnormal vaginal bleeding, which may be heavy and prolonged

    • Abnormal vaginal discharge

    • A mass or swelling in the pelvic area

    • Anaemia

    Reason for Uterus Cancer

    Unlike other diseases, the cause of cancer is still unknown. However, doctors have specified certain factors that increase the risk of developing uterus cancer.

    Risk Factors

    Risk Factor Description
    Genetics Women from families where colon cancer is hereditary are at a higher risk of developing uterus cancer.
    Diabetes (Type 2) The possibility of developing uterus cancer is higher for diabetics
    Estrogen-related factors

    Two estrogen-related factors that increase the probability of developing uterus cancer:

    Imbalance of the hormone

    Extended exposure to high levels of the hormone

    Other cancers Increased risk of developing uterus cancer if the person has managed cancers like breast and ovarian cancer.

    Diagnosis of Uterus Cancer

    Since, in most cases, the symptoms are similar to various other gynaecological conditions, diagnosing uterus cancer tends to involve a lot of tests. Here are some uterus cancer tests that are commonly done:

    Name of test How it is done? Purpose
    Pelvic exam The patient is physically examined for lumps, abnormal growth, or any signs of cancer To establish the first-level identification of cancer
    Imaging tests The patient undergoes sonography, CT Scan, and/or MRI The doctor takes a look at the internal organs to establish what was observed in the pelvic exam and more
    Biopsy A sample of the tissue from the affection area is taken via hysteroscopy and examined under a microscope To identify cancer cells
    Hysteroscopy A thin tube is inserted into the patient’s uterus To observe the inner linings of the organ and take a sample for biopsy

    If the doctor suspects uterus cancer, then he/she might recommend a range of other tests to determine the stage of cancer and its spread. These tests are:

    • Chest X-ray: If the doctor suspects that cancer to be at an advanced stage, then the chest x-ray can help determine if cancer has spread to the lungs

    • CT scan or MRI: These imaging tests can help identify if the cancer cells have spread to the nearby organs

    • PET scan: In this imaging test, the doctor will insert a radioactive tracer in the patient’s body to detect cancer cells throughout the body.

    Uterus Cancer Treatment

    Once a patient is diagnosed with uterus cancer, the doctor will plan the treatment based on its stage, spread, and overall health of the patient. Here are some treatment options for uterus cancer:

    Name of the treatment Description Purpose
    Surgery A surgeon will remove the tumour. If the cancer is in an advanced stage, then the surgeon might have to remove the uterus, ovaries, and/or fallopian tubes too. To restrict the growth and spread of cancer cells and assist in the treatment of the patient
    Radiation High-energy x-rays are used where the tumour is located To destroy cancer cells
    Chemotherapy The doctor prescribes drugs for uterus cancer These drugs are designed to kill cancer cells in the body
    Hormone therapy The doctor prescribes drugs to manage estrogen in the patient This is helpful in cases where the cancer is responding to changing levels of estrogen
    Targeted therapy The doctor prescribes medicines to manage advanced uterus cancer patients These drugs are designed to kill cancer cells while preserving the healthier cells in advanced cases where the cells have spread throughout the body

    Can you prevent Uterus Cancer?

    Here are some things that you can do to reduce the risk of developing uterus cancer:**

    • Maintain a healthy BMI: Target a healthy Body Mass Index (BMI) of less than 25.

    • Manage diabetes efficiently: Diabetes does not have a cure. However, you can manage it efficiently by talking to a diabetologist.

    • Don’t avoid birth control pills: These pills work by releasing estrogen and progesterone to create a monthly menstrual cycle. Over time, this reduces the risk of extra growth of the lining of the uterus.

    • Surgical removal of the uterus: If you are facing gynaecological problems with a high probability of developing uterus cancer, then you can opt for a hysterectomy or uterus removal.

    Why Buy a Medical Insurance Plan?

    Using a medical insurance plan for Uterus Cancer can help you manage the costs associated with diagnosis, treatment, and ongoing care. A comprehensive health insurance policy like the one offered by TATA AIG includes a range of benefits, including:**

    • Comprehensive coverage: TATA AIG’s health insurance packages are designed to cater to the varying needs of people and include a range of treatments and medical costs.

    • Affordable premiums and out-of-pocket costs: TATA AIG offers health insurance plans that are highly cost-efficient and a range of optional choices like co-payment, voluntary deductible, etc., to help reduce the premium liability without compromising on the coverage.

    • Large provider network: With TATA AIG, you can be assured of having access to a wide network of hospitals and healthcare professionals

    How to Buy Tata AIG’s Health Insurance?

    Here is a quick look at the process to buy TATA AIG Health insurance:

    Online Process:

    • Visit https://www.tataaig.com

    • Go to the Health Insurance Page

    • Choose the number of people covered under the policy:

    • For individual policies, select only “Self” and click on “Get Plan”

    • For family policies, select the family members that you want to be included and click on “Get Plan”

    • Enter the date of birth of all covered members and your contact information

    • Click on “See Plan”

    • Go through the inclusions, exclusions, and coverage offered by each plan offered and select the best one for your needs

    • Customize the policy by selecting add-on covers. Also, make sure to select the optimum sum insured

    • Click on “Buy Now”

    • We will call you to complete the buying process

    Offline purchase:

    • Visit the nearest TATA AIG office

    • Speak to our representative and provide complete details of the coverage that you need

    • Ensure that you inform the representative of the medical history of all covered members

    • The representative will offer some options. Choose the best plan for your requirements

    • Choose add-on covers and the sum insured

    • Review the policy details, premium amount, and coverage benefits

    • Pay the fees

    Documents Needed to Buy Tata AIG’s Medical Insurance Plan

    Here is a general list of documents needed to buy TATA AIG’s medical insurance plan:

    • Identification proof: Passport, driving license, Aadhaar card, or PAN card

    • Address proof: A utility bill, bank statement, or rental agreement.

    • Age proof: A birth certificate or school leaving certificate.

    • Medical history: You may be required to provide details of your medical history, including any pre-existing conditions, surgeries, or illnesses.

    • Income proof: Salary slips or income tax returns

    • Passport-sized photographs

    What to Look for in a Health Insurance Plan?

    Here are some important factors to consider before buying a health insurance policy:**

    • Protection: You will need your health insurance policy to cover various medical costs like hospital bills, consulting charges, therapies, surgeries, etc.

    • In-network providers: Look at the list of hospitals and associated healthcare professionals and make sure that there are specialists for uterus cancer on the list. You might want to tick off professionals like oncologists specialising in gynaecological diseases to help manage uterus cancer better

    • Affordability: Look at the premium amount, co-payment options, deductibles, and various other expenses associated with the policy before making a decision

    • Pre-existing condition coverage: If you have already started showing symptoms of uterus cancer and want to buy an insurance policy to cover the costs, then talk to the insurer about pre-existing condition coverage. This will usually involve a waiting period.

    • Second opinion costs: In most cancer cases, patients tend to opt for a second opinion to ensure that the diagnosis is right. Make sure that the policy covers these costs

    Things to Remember for Filing a Claim for Uterus Cancer Insurance

    If you are filing a claim for uterus cancer insurance, here are some important things to remember:

    Factor What to do? Details
    Documents Maintain a file with all documents starting from diagnostic tests, doctor consulting papers, and hospital documents along with all bills and receipts Insurers will require all documents to process your claim
    Talk to the insurer Inform the insurer about the diagnosis of the cancer The insurer will inform you about the process to get your coverage in a hassle-free manner
    Understand the coverage Go through the policy documents and pay attention to the inclusions, exclusions, and terms and conditions This will help you understand what is covered under your policy
    Follow the claim process Submit the claim request and documents within the prescribed timelines This can help you get your claim processed without any delays
    Track the claim Follow up with the insurer about the status of your claim regularly This will help you provide any additional information or documents immediately

    Health Insurance Tax Benefits

    You can avail of health insurance tax benefits on paying the premium of a health insurance policy under Section 80D of the Income Tax Act,1961. Here are the details:

    If you have purchased a health insurance policy for yourself, your spouse, your parents, and your dependent children, then the premium paid for the policies can be deducted from your taxable income. Here are the limits:

    • For people below 60 years of age: The maximum tax deduction limit is ₹25,000

    • For people above 60 years of age: The maximum tax deduction limit is ₹50,000

    The maximum deduction amount is ₹1 lakh if both you and your parents are senior citizens.

    It also includes the costs for preventive health check-ups (₹5000) for your family.

    Remember, if the premium for the health insurance policy is paid via cash, then it is not eligible for a tax deduction. Hence, make sure that you pay using any mode other than cash to be eligible.

    Disclaimer / TnC

    Your policy is subjected to terms and conditions & inclusions and exclusions mentioned in your policy wording. Please go through the documents carefully.

    Q1. Can hormones or hormone therapy cause uterus cancer?

    Q1. Can hormones or hormone therapy cause uterus cancer?

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    There is no confirmed study to establish the link between hormone therapy and uterus cancer. While in some cases, the cancer cells are highly sensitive to estrogen, they are not the cause of the disease.

    Q2. Can pregnancy increase the risk of uterus cancer?

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    On the contrary, women with multiple pregnancies/children are known to have a lower risk of uterus cancer.

    Q3. Can I buy a health insurance policy specifically for uterine cancer?

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    You can buy a comprehensive health insurance policy that offers coverage for different types of cancers. You can also opt for a critical insurance cover that offers a lump sum payment on being diagnosed with the disease.

    Q4. Will my health insurance cover all the costs associated with treating uterus cancer?

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    This depends on your health insurance policy. Read the policy documents carefully before buying.

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