The link between obesity and endometrial cancer risk has been well documented. A new study, however, shows that an even lower body mass index (BMI) than previously thought may indicate an increased risk in Asian women with postmenopausal bleeding. The results of the study are published online today at Menopause.
Endometrial cancer is the sixth most common form of cancer in women worldwide and is the leading cause of cancer death. Because there is currently no routine exam for endometrial cancer in asymptomatic women, it is important for healthcare professionals to be aware of this risk factors so that they can intervene effectively.
In this study, researchers used the Asian BMI standard for obesity (BMI> 25 kg / m)2) attempted to determine the relationship between BMI and a subsequent diagnosis of endometrial cancer in Asian women. The threshold for defining oneself as obese in Asian women is lower than that used to classify white women. Because about 90% of postmenopausal women with endometrial cancer have postmenopausal bleeding, the study specifically examined women who had experienced postmenopausal bleeding.
From the results of the study, the researchers concluded that Asian women with a BMI greater than 25 kg / m2 they were 1.57 times (57%) more likely to develop endometrial cancer. These results should alert health professionals be especially vigilant when treating Asian women with postmenopausal bleeding who are obese.
The results are published in the article “Obesity increases the risk of endometrial cancer in Chinese women with postmenopausal bleeding.”
“This study highlights the known relationship between BMI and endometrial cancer and suggests that the Asian standard for BMI for obesity (> 25 kg / m2) helps identify endometrial cancer in Asian women with postmenopausal bleeding. The key points to take away are that all women with postmenopausal bleeding should be evaluated and obesity remains an important and modifiable risk factor for endometrial cancer, with a linear relationship between BMI and cancer risk. of endometrium, ”explains Dr. Stephanie Faubion, NAMS medical director.
Provided by
The North American Menopause Society
Citation: Postmenopausal Hemorrhage May Be a Sign of Endometrial Cancer in Obese Asian Women (2021, June 30) Retrieved June 30, 2021 at https://medicalxpress.com/news/2021-06-postmenopausal-endometrial -cancer-obese-asian.html
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