Native American and Hispanic Women Diagnosed With Endometrial Cancer at Younger Ages, Study Finds

Endometrial cancer develops in the lining of the uterus. It is one of the most common gynaecological cancers, and abnormal uterine bleeding is an important symptom that requires medical assessment.

Researchers at the University of Arizona Cancer Center reviewed medical records from 261 women who underwent gynaecological surgery between 2016 and 2021. Among them, 168 were confirmed to have endometrial cancer.

The study reported an average diagnosis age of 49.8 years among Native American patients, compared with 62 years among White patients. Hispanic patients were diagnosed at an average age of 53.7 years, compared with 61.6 years among non-Hispanic patients.

The researchers also examined metabolic and social factors. Diabetes and obesity were identified as important health considerations, while housing and transportation difficulties were more common among patients with cancer in the study group.

The findings challenge the assumption that endometrial cancer is primarily a disease affecting older, postmenopausal women. Younger women with persistent or unusual uterine bleeding should not automatically dismiss the symptom as a routine menstrual change.

The study was retrospective and involved a relatively small patient group. Larger studies are needed to confirm the differences and understand the biological and social factors contributing to them.