Cancer of the endometrium involves the inner lining of the womb (uterus) called endometrium.

Another condition with a similar name is called endometriosis. This is a benign condition due to implantation of the endometrial tissue (stroma and glands) in another location like the outside of the uterus or lining of the pelvis during menstruation .

The condition is most common after the age of 60 years. This cancer accounts for about 6 percent of all cancers in women.

Research shows that some women are more at risk of developing the cancer than others. The condition presents as vaginal bleeding. Any post-menopausal women who experiences vaginal bleed should not ignore it. She should immediately seek an appointment with her gynecologist. Sometimes it is first noticed as vaginal spotting after sexual intercourse.

Surgery is the main cornerstone for the treatment of the endometrial cancer. The prognosis of the disease if diagnosed early is extremely good with a five-year survival of over 80%.

The other cancer of the uterus is called sarcoma. These occur rarely and there are several types from low grade or slow growing to high grade that grow more rapidly. The sarcoma usually occur from the muscular wall of the uterus. A benign type is called leiomyoma and the malignant version - leiomyosarcoma. The benign leiomyoma is also called a fibriod tumor. The fibroids are common and usually require no treatment.