Endometrial Cancer

Endometrial cancer is cancer that starts in the endometrium, the lining of the uterus (womb).

Endometrial Cancer Causes

Endometrial cancer is the most common type of uterine cancer. While the exact cause of endometrial cancer is unknown, an increased level of estrogen may play a role. Estrogen helps stimulate the buildup of the lining of the uterus, which can lead to overgrowth of the endometrium and cancer.

Most cases of endometrial cancer occur between the ages of 60 and 70, with a few cases occurring before age 40.

The following factors related to your hormones increase your risk of endometrial cancer:

• Estrogen replacement therapy without the use of progesterone
• History of endometrial polyps
• Infrequent periods
• Never being pregnant
• Obesity
• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Starting menstruation at an early age (before age 12)
• Starting menopause after age 50
• Tamoxifen, a drug used for breast cancer treatment

Women with the following conditions also seem to be at a higher risk of endometrial cancer:

• Colon or breast cancer
• Diabetes
• Gallbladder disease
• High blood pressure
• Symptoms

Endometrial Cancer Symptoms

Symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

• Abnormal bleeding from the vagina, including bleeding between periods or spotting/bleeding after menopause
• Extremely long, heavy or frequent episodes of vaginal bleeding after age 40
• Lower abdominal pain or pelvic cramping
• Thin white or clear vaginal discharge after menopause