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Over the past 15 years, uterine cancer cases have almost doubled in the United States. The speed at which uterine cancer is increasing puts it on track to surpass colorectal cancer, making it the third most prevalent cancer in women and the fourth leading cause of cancer-related deaths. It’s possible that if current trends continue, the fatality rate for uterine cancer may match that of ovarian cancer.
While routine health screenings are crucial, there isn’t a specific test for uterine cancer and it can’t be detected via a PAP smear. Thus, it’s critical for women to be aware of the symptoms. Abnormal bleeding is the most common symptom of uterine cancer. Younger women may experience heavy bleeding or bleeding between periods. Post-menopausal women should seek medical advice for any bleeding, no matter how minor. A missed period that isn’t due to pregnancy, menopause, or hormonal-based contraception, or persistent pain or pressure in the pelvic region may also be a symptom of uterine cancer.
If uterine cancer is suspected, doctors may carry out a thorough examination of the uterus and conduct a tissue biopsy or ultrasound. Hysterectomy is the most common treatment for early-stage cancer. For advanced stages, chemotherapy and radiation may be recommended.
Emerging studies point to certain groups of women being more prone to uterine cancer. This includes Black and Hispanic women, with the former facing a higher risk of a severe form of the disease and having twice the likelihood of succumbing to it compared to white women. The data from 2000 to 2017 indicates that almost 18% of uterine cancer-related deaths were Black women.
Black women are more likely to use chemical hair straighteners, and a decade-long study by the National Institute of Health involving approximately 34,000 women, established a noticeable difference in the cancer rates among women who used chemical hair straighteners and those who didn’t. The uterine cancer risk for women aged under 70 who had never used such hair straighteners stood at 1.64%. However, this percentage almost doubled to 4.05% – a significant increase for a relatively rare form of cancer.
There’s also a link between the use of chemical hair straighteners and breast cancer, with a 2019 study of over 46,000 women by the National Institute of Environmental Health Sciences revealing that women who regularly straightened their hair (every five to eight weeks) faced about a 30% higher risk of developing breast cancer. Furthermore, another study from the same cohort showed a higher risk of ovarian cancer associated with frequent use of chemical hair straighteners.
Certain chemicals present in our surroundings and personal products have been associated with an increased cancer risk. Hair straighteners contain compounds, such as PFAS (perfluoroalkyl and polyfluoroalkyl compounds),These chemicals are often referred to as “forever chemicals” because of their long lifespan in the environment and their potential to cause lasting harm. Additionally, these products can contain formaldehyde, bisphenol-A, parabens, and metals, which are known to disrupt the body’s natural hormonal balance.
Uterine cancer primarily affects women in their 50s and 60s, and the risk amplifies as women age. Conditions causing hormonal imbalances like polycystic ovary syndrome or certain ovarian tumors may heighten the risk. Certain estrogen-containing medications and obesity, which leads to increased estrogen production, could contribute to the risk. Women with a familial history of uterine cancer need to be vigilant about early signs and maintain regular communication with their healthcare provider.
A cancer diagnosis can be a substantial emotional burden. Even though early detection can lead to full recovery, it often comes with significant financial and emotional strains. Medical expenses can skyrocket due to doctor visits, lab tests, surgery, hospital stays, radiation, chemotherapy, prescription medications, and reconstructive surgeries. Besides, cancer treatments often result in missed work, impacting income. Furthermore, compensation for non-economic damages like physical and emotional pain, loss of enjoyment, emotional distress, and physical disfigurement can be claimed.
If you’ve used chemical hair straighteners and have been diagnosed with breast, uterine, ovarian, or endometrial cancer, you might be eligible for compensation. Seek legal counsel immediately. Remember, Louisiana’s statute of limitations for personal injury claims is just one year. Contact us today to discuss your case.