Do Fibroids Cause Cancer?
September 22, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Most uterine fibroids, also known as leiomyomas or myomas, are benign (non-cancerous) growths that develop in the muscular wall of the uterus. They do not inherently cause cancer. Uterine fibroids are common, and many women develop them at some point during their reproductive years.
However, while fibroids themselves are not cancerous, there are some important considerations:
- Cancer Risk Factors: Having uterine fibroids does not directly increase your risk of developing uterine cancer (endometrial cancer). Uterine cancer and uterine fibroids are separate conditions with different risk factors.
- Uncommon Transformations: In extremely rare cases, a fibroid can undergo a transformation called “leiomyosarcoma.” Leiomyosarcoma is a malignant (cancerous) tumor of the smooth muscle cells that can occur in the uterus. It is essential to emphasize that leiomyosarcoma is exceptionally rare, accounting for only a tiny percentage of uterine tumors. The vast majority of fibroids remain benign.
- Monitoring and Consultation: If you have fibroids, your healthcare provider may recommend regular monitoring to ensure they are not growing rapidly or causing unusual symptoms. In some cases, a biopsy or other diagnostic tests may be performed if there are concerns about the nature of the fibroid or its growth.
- Symptoms and Treatment: While fibroids are generally not cancerous, they can cause a range of symptoms, such as heavy menstrual bleeding, pelvic pain, and pressure on nearby organs. Treatment options may be considered based on the severity of your symptoms and their impact on your quality of life.
It’s important to have regular check-ups with your healthcare provider, especially if you have uterine fibroids, to monitor their growth and any potential changes. If you have concerns about fibroids, cancer, or any other health issues, it’s always a good idea to discuss them with your healthcare provider, who can provide you with personalized guidance and recommendations based on your specific situation.