Uterine Cancer Causes: Understanding The Risks And Prevention

Uterine cancer is the 4th most common cancer affecting women in Singapore. Understanding the causes and risk factors can help in early detection and prevention. In this article, we explore the key uterine cancer causes and how you can reduce your risk.

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What Causes Uterine Cancer?

Uterine cancer, also known as endometrial cancer, develops when cells in the lining of the uterus grow uncontrollably. While the exact cause is not always clear, several factors contribute to the likelihood of developing this condition.

1. Hormonal Imbalance

Hormones play a significant role in the development of uterine cancer. An excess of oestrogen without sufficient progesterone can lead to abnormal growth in the uterine lining, increasing the risk of cancer. This imbalance can be caused by conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), obesity, and hormone replacement therapy (HRT) that includes oestrogen but not progesterone.

2. Obesity

Excess body fat increases oestrogen levels in the body, which can lead to an increased risk of uterine cancer. Women who are overweight or obese have a higher likelihood of developing this cancer compared to those with a healthy body weight.

3. Age and Menopause

The risk of uterine cancer increases with age, particularly after menopause. Most cases occur in women over the age of 50. As women age, hormonal fluctuations and other metabolic changes can contribute to cancer risk.

4. Diabetes

Women with diabetes, especially Type 2 diabetes, have a higher risk of developing uterine cancer. This may be due to insulin resistance and its effects on hormone levels.

5. Family History and Genetics

A family history of uterine cancer or genetic conditions such as Lynch syndrome can increase the risk. Women with a strong family history of gynaecological cancers should consider genetic counselling and regular screenings.

6. Endometrial Hyperplasia

This condition occurs when the lining of the uterus becomes too thick due to excess oestrogen. While not all cases lead to cancer, certain types of endometrial hyperplasia can develop into uterine cancer if left untreated.

How to Reduce the Risk of Uterine Cancer

While some risk factors cannot be changed, there are steps women can take to lower their risk of developing uterine cancer:

• Maintain a Healthy Weight: Eating a balanced diet and engaging in regular physical activity can help manage body weight and hormone levels.
• Manage Diabetes: Proper blood sugar control through a healthy lifestyle and medical treatment can reduce the risk.
• Use Hormone Therapy Wisely: Women undergoing hormone replacement therapy should discuss the risks with their doctors and consider options that include progesterone.
• Regular Health Screenings: Routine gynaecological check-ups can help detect any abnormalities early, increasing the chances of successful treatment.

When to See a Doctor

Women should consult a doctor if they experience any unusual symptoms, such as abnormal vaginal bleeding, pelvic pain, or difficulty urinating. Early diagnosis significantly improves treatment outcomes.

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