Q. What factors increase the risk of developing uterine cancer?

Doctor Answer is medically reviewed by SecondMedic medical review team.

Answered by Secondmedic Expert

Several factors can contribute to an increased risk of developing uterine cancer. It's essential to note that having one or more risk factors doesn't guarantee that an individual will develop uterine cancer, and some people diagnosed with uterine cancer may not have any known risk factors. However, the following factors are associated with an elevated risk:

1. Age: Uterine cancer is more common in postmenopausal women, and the risk increases with age.

2. Hormonal Factors:
- Estrogen Exposure: Prolonged exposure to estrogen without progesterone, as may occur in women who have never been pregnant, started menstruating early, or experienced late menopause, can increase the risk.
- Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of estrogen without progesterone in hormone replacement therapy for menopausal symptoms may increase the risk.

3. Obesity: Excess body weight, particularly in postmenopausal women, is associated with an increased risk of uterine cancer.

4. Diabetes: Women with diabetes, especially those with insulin resistance, may have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer.

5. High Blood Pressure (Hypertension): Hypertension has been linked to an increased risk of uterine cancer.

6. Polycystic Ovary Syndrome (PCOS): Women with PCOS, a hormonal disorder, may have a higher risk of uterine cancer due to hormonal imbalances.

7. Hereditary Factors:
- Lynch Syndrome: This genetic condition increases the risk of various cancers, including uterine cancer.
- Hereditary Nonpolyposis Colorectal Cancer (HNPCC): People with this syndrome have an increased risk of uterine and other cancers.

8. Endometrial Hyperplasia: The presence of abnormal overgrowth of the lining of the uterus (endometrium) may increase the risk of uterine cancer.

9. Tamoxifen Use: Long-term use of the drug tamoxifen, often prescribed for breast cancer treatment, may slightly increase the risk of uterine cancer.

10. Race and Ethnicity: Uterine cancer is more common in white women, but the reasons for this racial disparity are not fully understood.

It's crucial for individuals with potential risk factors to discuss their health history with healthcare providers. Regular check-ups and screenings may be recommended for those with increased risk to facilitate early detection and intervention.