Endometrial cancer, a type of cancer that begins in the lining of the uterus (endometrium), is a significant health concern. While the exact cause is not known, it is attributed to genetic mutation in endometrial cells. Understanding the Endometrial Cancer risk factors associated with this disease can help in early detection and prevention. Here are some of the key risk factors:

Obesity

Obesity is a strong risk factor for endometrial cancer. Fat tissue can change some other hormones (called androgens) into estrogens, especially after menopause. This can impact estrogen levels, increasing endometrial cancer risk. Endometrial cancer is twice as common in overweight women (BMI 25 to 29.9), and more than 3 times as common in obese women (BMI > 30).

Hormone Factors

Many of the risk factors for endometrial cancer affect estrogen levels. Factors that affect hormone levels include taking estrogen after menopause, birth control pills, or tamoxifen; the number of menstrual cycles (over a lifetime), pregnancy, certain ovarian tumors, and polycystic ovarian syndrome (PCOS).

Early Menarche and Pregnancy(Endometrial Cancer risk factors)

Early menarche, starting menstruation before the age of 11 years, and women who have never been pregnant are at a higher risk.

Drug Tamoxifen

Type 2 diabetes and a diet high in animal fats are also associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer.

Family History

A family history of endometrial cancer or colon cancer (hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer or Lynch syndrome) can increase the risk.

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Prevention and Early Detection

Prevention of endometrial cancer includes using oral contraceptives for at least one year, maintaining a healthy weight, and regular physical exercise. Diagnosis involves observation of the changes in the uterus through pelvic examination, hysteroscopy, ultrasound, and endometrial biopsy.

In conclusion, understanding these risk factors can help in early detection and prevention of endometrial cancer. It’s important to remember that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean that a woman will develop endometrial cancer. Regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers can help manage these risks effectively.

Citations:

• https://www.msn.com/en-us/health/condition/Endometrial-cancer/hp-Endometrial-cancer?source=conditioncdx
• https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/endometrial-cancer/causes-risks-prevention/risk-factors.html
• https://www.urmc.rochester.edu/encyclopedia/content.aspx?ContentTypeID=34&ContentID=17119-1
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/endometrial-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20352461