There are many risk factors that a woman can have which increase her risk of developing endometrial cancer. Many of these risk factors seem to be related to how long a woman has been exposed to natural circulating (within the body) estrogen during her lifetime. For example, estrogen levels are highest in women during their childbearing years, and women who had their first period (menarche) earlier have an increased risk of developing uterine cancer than women who had their first period later. Likewise, a woman who went into menopause at a later age has a higher risk of developing uterine cancer. Women who have never had children or who have had infertility issues may be at higher risk as well. Age itself is a risk factor, as endometrial cancer typically affects women within a decade or two of menopause.
Obesity is also associated with higher amounts of circulating estrogen and a higher risk of developing uterine cancer, as is the use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
Genetics and family history also play a role. Older women or women with a family history are at higher risk, as are those who have themselves had breast, colon or ovarian cancer, as well as certain treatments for cancers such as prior pelvic radiation therapy or use of the drug Tamoxifen. Certain genetic diseases or medical conditions can also increase a woman's risk of developing uterine cancer, including polycystic ovarian syndrome, hereditary onpolyposis, diabetes, and endometrial hyperplasia.
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