Posted Feb 28, 2012
Women with a history of endometriosis are more likely to develop three types of ovarian cancer, according to research.
Scientists have found that endometriosis,which affects about 10% of women of reproductive age and occurs when pieces of the uterus lining appear outside the womb, is linked to a higher risk of clear cell, endometrioid and low-grade serious cancers.
Several previous studies have suggested the disease is associated with a risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer, but the new study, published online in the Lancet Oncology, confirms the risk and the relationship with these specific ovarian cancers.
Lead author Celeste Leigh Pearce, from the University of Southern California, said: “This breakthrough could lead to better identification of women at increased risk of ovarian cancer and could provide a basis for increased cancer surveillance of the relevant population.”
The study used data from more than 23,000 women. © 2012 The Herald.