Medical history and medications
A woman’s medical history and use of medications can be associated with an increased or decreased risk of endometrial cancer.
An example of a medical condition associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer is diabetes.
Results are inconclusive for conditions such as endometriosis, polycystic ovary syndrome, high blood pressure and stress.
Examples of medications associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer include use of oestrogen-only menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT) and the drug tamoxifen. Use of certain intrauterine devices (IUDs) may also be associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer.
Medications associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer include oral contraceptives and may include use of oral bisphosphonates and use of continuous combined menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT). Aspirin and other related medicines may be associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer in women who are obese.
A number of other medications have been examined to look for a possible association with endometrial cancer, but results are inconclusive. This includes use of metformin, statins and fertility drugs. There is no association between taking paracetamol and risk of endometrial cancer.