Actress Alex Kingston revealed she was diagnosed with womb cancer last year, underwent a hysterectomy and radiation therapy, and is now advocating for women to pay attention to health symptoms and seek medical help early.
Many women are unaware of the symptoms of womb cancer, which is often diagnosed late due to lack of awareness, leading to low survival rates. Key signs include abnormal vaginal bleeding and other symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating. Early detection is crucial for better outcomes, but many women mistakenly believe smear tests can detect this cancer. Raising awareness and prompt medical consultation can save lives.
Womb cancer, the fourth most common type of cancer in women in the UK, often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage due to a lack of awareness about its symptoms. Campaigners are urging people to be vigilant and familiarize themselves with the key warning signs, including bleeding after sex, blood-stained vaginal discharge, bleeding between periods, and abdominal pain. Other symptoms that may indicate advanced stage womb cancer include pain in the back, legs, or pelvis, loss of appetite, tiredness, and nausea. It is important to consult a doctor if experiencing any unusual symptoms, as early detection significantly improves survival rates. Risk factors for womb cancer include age, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, diabetes, and a family history of the disease.