Risk Management & Treatment > Screening and Risk Reduction > By Cancer Type > Endometrial > Medications to Reduce Risk
Medications to lower endometrial cancer risk
Medications may lower the risk for endometrial and other cancers in women at high risk due to an inherited mutation, but data is very limited. More research is needed to help experts understand how well these medications work, and which patients may benefit most from their use. High-risk women who are considering medications to lower their risk for endometrial cancer should speak with their doctor to decide whether is their best option for managing their risk.
Progesterone
Often used as birth control, progesterone has been shown to lower the risk for ovarian cancer in both high-risk women and average-risk women. Some small studies also suggest that progesterone can lower the risk for endometrial cancer in high-risk women.
Progesterone may be given as a pill, injection or through an Intrauterine Device (IUD). Progesterone can have side effects which vary widely based on how the medication is taken. These side effects may include an increased risk for breast cancer and blood clots and weight gain.
Aspirin
In people with , daily aspirin may decrease the risk for colon cancer. Researchers are studying whether aspirin lowers the risk for other cancers, including endometrial cancer. Aspirin can increase the risk for bleeding.
Find Experts
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