Q&A of the Week: Is Uterine Cancer Genetic?
Anita asks: My mother had uterine cancer at age 60. I am now 45. Am I at an increased risk for endometrial or uterine cancer? If so, what steps should I take to prevent or detect it?
Hi, Anita -
This is an area of some controversy. Probably, if your family history doesn't include other uterine or colon cancer in close relatives, you are at little if any increased risk. If your mother had been under 45 when she was diagnosed with uterine (endometrial) cancer, that may have been more of a red flag for a possible increased risk. Even then, though, the risk may not be as great as once thought.
The more significant genetic syndrome which predisposes women to endometrial cancer is called Hereditary Non-Polyposis Colon Cancer (HNPCC) Syndrome. This genetic abnormality may account for up to 10% of colorectal cancers and a cluster of other abdominal cancers, including cancers of the GI tract, pancreas, and ovaries. Having two or more close relatives with colorectal cancer or one of the other related cancers, particularly if the family members were young (before the age of 45-50), may be a warning sign for HNPCC, and anyone in this situation should consult their physicians for possible increased screening measures and/or genetic counseling.
Otherwise, the best measure for preventing uterine cancer is to familiarize yourself with the risks and symptoms. This file from the National Cancer Institute goes over the main risk factors. The most common symptom is abnormal uterine bleeding, most often in post-menopausal women. Other symptoms can be pelvic pain or pain with intercourse. Any of these symptoms should be investigated by a physician.
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