Endometrial Cancer: Age of Onset, Risk Factors, and Early Signs

Endometrial cancer is the most common gynecologic malignancy. The average diagnosis age is 60, with most cases occurring after 55. However, it can develop earlier, especially with risk factors.

Key Risk Factors

• Obesity: Excess adipose tissue increases estrogen production, driving endometrial proliferation.
• Diabetes and insulin resistance: Independent risk factors beyond weight.
• Hypertension: Often clusters with obesity and metabolic syndrome.
• Unopposed estrogen exposure: Estrogen therapy without progesterone, late menopause, nulliparity, polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS).
• Genetic syndromes: Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) markedly increases risk.
• Tamoxifen use: Slightly elevates risk due to estrogenic effects on endometrium.

Warning Signs

Postmenopausal bleeding is the hallmark symptom. Premenopausal women should evaluate irregular or heavy bleeding. Early detection yields excellent prognosis.