Endometrial cancer risk management
Every woman is at risk for endometrial cancer and the risk increases with age. A woman in the general population has about a 3 percent lifetime risk of developing endometrial cancer. This means that 1 out of every 33 women will get endometrial cancer in her lifetime.
Endometrial cancer screening and risk reduction
There are different options for managing endometrial cancer risk, including:
Which option you choose for managing your endometrial cancer risk will depend on several factors, including:
- your age
- the presence of an inherited gene mutation
- your personal and family history of cancer
- other risk factors
- personal preferences
There are different national expert guidelines for endometrial cancer risk management, which are based on your level of risk. Speak with your healthcare provider to decide on a risk management plan and schedule that is right for you.
Genes linked to endometrial cancer risk
Inherited mutations in the following genes have been linked to an increased risk for endometrial cancer, (click on the gene to learn more about the endometrial cancer risk associated for each):
The most common inherited gene mutations associated with hereditary endometrial cancer are:
A rare type of endometrial cancer, uterine serous carcinoma, has also been linked to mutations. However, this remains under study.
Other factors linked to endometrial cancer risk
Factors such as diet, weight, exercise, hormone exposure, and certain medications like tamoxifen can affect endometrial cancer risk in the general population and in people at high risk for cancer. More research is needed to understand how much these factors influence risk in people with inherited mutations.
Gynecologists are experts who specialize in the female reproductive system. They also perform screening for reproductive cancers, including ovarian, endometrial and cervical. Not all gynecologists are experts in screening for cancers in high-risk people. If you already have a gynecologist, ask how many patients with your mutation they care for, and what risk-management guidelines they follow. Gynecologic oncologists are experts in treatment or prevention of cancers of the female reproductive system.
- The Foundation for Women's Cancer has a search tool to help you find a gynecologic oncologist. .
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer centers deliver cutting-edge cancer care to patients in communities across the United States. Most centers have specialized screening and prevention centers for high risk people. Find a center near you and learn about its specific research capabilities, programs, and initiatives.
- Register for the FORCE Message Boards to get referrals from other members. Once you register, you can post on the Find a Specialist board to connect with other people who share your situation.
updated: 12/21/2022