1. < Gynecologic Cancers

Radiation or not after surgery for endometrial cancer?

Posted by marceyw @marceyw, Feb 4 9:49pm

I was diagnosed with early stage endometrial cancer at Christmas. Had complete hysterectomy on 1/9/24. There was no cancer in the sentinel lymph nodes, ovaries or tubes. My doctor is suggesting brachytherapy to cut my 10% chance of recurrence to 5%. I’m concerned about the side effects. Has anyone been thru this and what are the possible side affects of this type of radiation? Dr said I don’t have the harmful P53 gene but do have a gene that would qualify me for immunotherapy if it were to come back. Really torn about what to do next. Would like to think I could fight the return with diet and lifestyle. Ideas and experiences appreciated.

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gisellef | @gisellef | Sep 3 2:02pm
In reply to @karenpollock "I had 3 radiation treatments at Abbott Northwestern. I had no side effects from this treatment..." + (show)
@karenpollock

I had 3 radiation treatments at Abbott Northwestern. I had no side effects from this treatment and haven't had any symptoms of any kind since. All my checkups have been negative.

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Excellent. My family member was fine with her 4 week radiation schedule until the end of the third week.
All the best to all those currently in treatment.

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gisellef | @gisellef | Sep 3 2:08pm

My inclination is to follow your doctor’s advice. Endometrial cancer can return—even when you are diagnosed at very early stages. I would at least try the radiation therapy if in your position. Much easier to get through this now than to deal with the possibility of a recurrence, as you may not notice the symptoms until much later.
Whatever you decide I wish you well in your recovery and return to good health.

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jc100 | @jc100 | Sep 4 8:46am

I had three brachytherapy sessions, and there were no side effects. I was diagnosed with aggressive endometrial cancer, and I wanted to do everything to prevent it from recurring. I wish you a good recovery, but do discuss it more with your doctors.

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cookercooker | @cookercooker | Sep 4 10:59am

Go for the radiation! Although I don't know much about brachytherapy, I do know that it is better than external beam radiation: less chance of killing off healthy surrounding tissues. Just wondering why you wouldn't be getting chemo as well.
As for diet and healthy lifestyle, while everyone should follow the regime the effects on cancer may be minimal. Cancer is complicated, operating at the DNA level, so I don't imagine that eating cruciferous veggies and other purported cancer-antagonistic foods would be potent enough to mitigate the course of the disease.
Having said that, there are natural foods and supplements (like pectin) that can ameliorate the effects of radiation.
Hope this helps.

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