Background
Endometrial cancer is estimated to be the fifth most commonly diagnosed cancer among Australian women in 2019. Incidence is particularly increasing among young women.
There is a lack of research that summarises the available evidence on risk factors for endometrial cancer and there is a lack of awareness among the Australian community of the modifiable risk and protective factors for endometrial cancer.
Methods
Epidemiological evidence for a broad range of potential risk factors was reviewed. The strength of evidence was classified using an explicit system and a best estimate of risk identified for those factors where the evidence was sufficiently strong. A multidisciplinary group provided expert input into the scope and methodology of the review. The evidence was tailored for online communication suitable for the general community.
Results
A summary technical report and website information on risk factors for endometrial cancer was published by Cancer Australia in September 2019.
Eleven exposures were identified as being associated with an increased risk and 12 exposures with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer. There was inconclusive evidence for 16 exposures and evidence of no association for two exposures.
The website information notably includes icons indicating the evidence classification as well as clear, concise, ‘user-friendly’ statements regarding the nature and strength of the evidence, the magnitude of risk where relevant, and proposed biological mechanisms.
Eight risk or protective factors are highlighted as modifiable on the website, including overweight and obesity, diabetes, oral or transdermal oestrogen-only menopausal hormone therapy, physical activity and breastfeeding. Population attributable fractions for the modifiable factors are presented where available.
Conclusions
Up-to-date, evidence-based information on risk factors for endometrial cancer is now available in Australia, accessible and relevant to a variety of audiences. Importantly, this information can inform health promotion communication aimed at reducing the incidence of endometrial cancer.