Number of female patients with uterine fibroids increases by more than 20% over the past 5 years
According to a recent announcement by the Health Insurance Review and Assessment Service, the number of female patients who visited hospitals for uterine fibroids has increased by 20.4% over the past five years. Uterine fibroids are benign tumors that develop in the muscular layer of the uterus and are a common condition among many women.
Experts attribute the rise in uterine fibroid patients to Westernized eating habits, stress, and environmental hormones. Additionally, the increase in the number of women undergoing regular health check-ups compared to the past, leading to more cases of early detection, is also analyzed as a reason for the rise in the number of patients.
In the early stages, uterine fibroids often do not present with any specific symptoms. However, as the tumor grows in size or depending on its location, symptoms such as severe menstrual cramps or a sudden increase in menstrual flow may occur. If left untreated, it can lead to anemia or infertility, so caution is required.
Medical professionals advise that maintaining regular exercise and a balanced diet is important to prevent uterine fibroids. In particular, if you feel any changes in your body that are different from usual, it is recommended to visit an obstetrician-gynecologist immediately for an ultrasound examination.
Uterine fibroids are a condition that can be sufficiently managed through regular check-ups. Women are encouraged to take an interest in their health status and develop the habit of getting a regular check-up at least once a year, even if they have no symptoms.