We are witnessing a concerning global rise in endometrial cancer cases.
Over the last 20 years in Australia, case numbers have almost doubled, whilst in New Zealand numbers have almost trebled.
Watch Professor Linda Mileshkin, Chair of ANZGOG's EDEN Initiative & Medical Oncologist speak about endometrial cancer:
What is endometrial cancer?
Endometrial cancer is a type of cancer of the uterus, or womb. It specifically begins in the inner lining of the uterus, which is known as the endometrium. Surprisingly, it is the most common form of uterine cancer, making up an overwhelming 95% of all uterine cancer cases diagnosed annually.
“From my perspective, the huge concern I have is to understand why we are facing such a surge in number of women – especially young women with endometrial cancer – what has changed and what can we do about it. Well-informed research can help with understanding more about causes and effects of different interventions on our women and their cancers.”
– Dr Bryony Simcock, Gynaecological Oncologist
Why is endometrial cancer a problem?
The numbers speak for themselves. Each year, more than 3,300 Australian women and 700 New Zealand women receive this life-altering diagnosis. This alarming growth rate is not just a statistic but represents thousands of women whose lives have been altered forever.
Various factors are thought to be contributing to the rising incidence of endometrial cancer in Australia. Key influences are the aging population, as the risk of developing this cancer increases with age, and the obesity epidemic; obesity being a significant risk factor for endometrial cancer.
Significant socio-demographic influences also contribute to the complexity of the situation. Studies have shown that the number of annual uterine cancer diagnoses increases with increasing socio-economic disadvantage, with patients from lower socio-economic backgrounds experiencing higher associated mortality. Furthermore, Indigenous women in Australia and New Zealand are disproportionately affected by endometrial cancer, with significantly higher incidence rates compared to non-Indigenous women.
Endometrial cancer is the most common type of gynaecological cancer, yet is generally very under-recognised by both the public and in research.
Flattening the endometrial cancer curve
Research is one of the best tools for curbing the growth of endometrial cancer. Through targeted research, understanding of this disease can be deepened, and new treatment methods which could potentially save lives can be discovered. But research isn't just about finding a cure; it's about improving the quality of life for those living with endometrial cancer and ensuring they have access to the best care possible.
ANZGOG’s EDEN Initiative is leading the charge to reduce the number of new endometrial cancer cases and improve the lived experiences of women diagnosed with the disease. We are bringing together expert endometrial cancer doctors, nurses, and allied health professionals, passionate researchers, and, most importantly, women with a lived experience to focus on:
- Prevention: understanding risk factors
- Early diagnosis: symptom awareness, identification of reliable screening options
- Better treatments: including personalising treatment options to specific patient needs.
- Improved outcomes: including better management of side-effects, well-being needs, and best practise for ongoing follow-up with doctors.
- More research: including that to identify new drugs and drug targets.
- New clinical trials: and better access for patients all around Australia and New Zealand, no matter where they live.
- Giving endometrial cancer patients a voice.
Research for endometrial cancer is notoriously underfunded, despite its prevalence. This further highlights the urgent need for initiatives like EDEN.
