Womb cancer in younger adults is rising: what the latest research shows
Recent coverage by the BBC has drawn attention to new research published in BMJ Oncology exploring changes in cancer rates among younger adults, including womb cancer (also known as endometrial cancer).
Key findings from the research include:
- Endometrial (womb) cancer is one of several cancer types increasing in both younger and older adults in England
- It is also one of five cancers where rates are increasing faster in younger women than in older women
- The reasons for these patterns are not yet clear and require further research
At Peaches, we welcome increased awareness of this issue. While womb cancer is more commonly diagnosed after menopause, younger people can be affected too. This latest research suggests that rates of endometrial cancer in younger adults are rising, but the reasons for this are not fully understood.
Some known risk factors (such as living with overweight or obesity) do play a role, but the research shows this does not fully explain the increase. This highlights the need for further research to better understand what is driving these changes and how we can improve prevention, early diagnosis and outcomes.
Research shows that carrying extra body fat — which often leads to a higher body weight — can increase the risk of developing womb cancer. This isn’t always widely understood, and it’s not about appearance or size — it’s about how extra body fat can affect hormone levels and other processes in the body.
We also know that a diagnosis of womb cancer can bring different challenges for younger people, including early menopause after treatment and decisions around fertility and future plans. This makes it vital that symptoms are recognised early and taken seriously at any age.
At Peaches, we are committed to raising awareness of womb cancer symptoms, supporting those affected, and promoting research:
Our Clinical Nurse Specialist, Cath, runs regular sessions for people newly diagnosed with womb cancer, with the next starting in June.
We’re also planning a new online support group for Younger People, coming soon. If you’d be interested in joining, or would like to reach out for confidential support, you can email Cath at [email protected].
All our services are free.
If you are concerned about symptoms or would like to know more, you can find clear, trusted information on the Peaches website.
