This National Cancer Institute (NCI) booklet (NIH Publication No. 01-1562) has important information about cancer* of the uterus. In the United States, cancer of the uterus is the most common cancer of the female reproductive system. It accounts for six percent of all cancers in women in this country.

This booklet has information about the possible causes, symptoms, diagnosis, and treatment of cancer of the uterus. It will help patients and their families and friends better understand and cope with this disease.

Research is increasing what we know about cancer of the uterus. Scientists are learning more about its causes. They are exploring new ways to prevent, detect, diagnose, and treat this disease. Research has helped to improve patients' quality of life and lower the chance of dying from this disease.

Information specialists at the Cancer Information Service ¹ can answer callers' questions about cancer and can send other National Cancer Institute publications. The number to call is 1-800-4-CANCER. Also, anyone may view or order NCI publications on the Internet at http://www.cancer.gov/publications.

Glossary Terms

A term for diseases in which abnormal cells divide without control. Cancer cells can invade nearby tissues and can spread to other parts of the body through the blood and lymph systems. There are several main types of cancer. Carcinoma is cancer that begins in the skin or in tissues that line or cover internal organs. Sarcoma is cancer that begins in bone, cartilage, fat, muscle, blood vessels, or other connective or supportive tissue. Leukemia is cancer that starts in blood-forming tissue such as the bone marrow, and causes large numbers of abnormal blood cells to be produced and enter the blood. Lymphoma and multiple myeloma are cancers that begin in the cells of the immune system. Central nervous system cancers are cancers that begin in the tissues of the brain and spinal cord.