Endometriosis: new study reveals fourfold increased risk of ovarian cancer
Women with Endometriosis have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, according to a study
What is Endometriosis?
Endometriosis is a chronic gynecological disease that affects women, most frequently of childbearing age. It is caused by the abnormal presence of endometrial cells (the tissue lining the inner wall of the uterus) in organs other than the uterus, mainly ovaries, tubes, peritoneum, vagina, and intestines. Endometriosis is a condition that comprehensively affects a woman’s health, resulting in psychophysical effects that are often markedly debilitating. It is estimated to affect more than 11% of women aged 15-44 in the United States.
Endometriosis and ovarian cancer
According to a recent study published in the medical journal JAMA, women who suffer from endometriosis have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. This risk is as much as four times higher than for women who do not suffer from it. The study also found that the risk of ovarian cancer varies depending on the type of endometriosis:
- Women with deep infiltrating endometriosis or ovarian endometriomas (blood-filled ovarian cysts) have up to a 9.7-fold increased risk of ovarian cancer
- The risk of type I ovarian cancer, which tends to grow more slowly, is about 19 times higher in women with endometriosis
- The risk of type II ovarian cancer, which can be more aggressive, is about 2.7 times higher
Reassurance from experts
However, experts say people with endometriosis should not panic about the results of the new study. Ovarian cancer itself is still a rare disease, and even for women with endometriosis, the absolute risk is still relatively low. However, it is important to know about this association and to know what to look out for.
Endometriosis diagnosed: what to do?
In case Endometriosis has been diagnosed, it is crucial to:
- Be aware of your risk: talk to your doctor to understand your individual risk
- Know the symptoms of ovarian cancer: abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, changes in bowel or bladder habits. If you notice these symptoms, see your doctor as soon as possible
- Don’t panic: remember that the risk of ovarian cancer is still low
- Talk to your doctor: evaluate your options together and what preventive measures you can take, such as using birth control pills (which can reduce ovarian cancer risk)
A study still open
Researchers are still trying to understand exactly why endometriosis increases the risk of ovarian cancer and whether screening for ovarian cancer is recommended for women with endometriosis. Further research is needed to better define the prevention and management of this association.