High intake of foods that raise blood glucose levels is probably associated with an increased risk of endometrial cancer. This is called a high glycaemic load*.

A number of studies have shown that the risk of endometrial cancer increases in women who have a high intake of foods that raise blood glucose levels. In these studies, the risk of endometrial cancer increased by about 15% for every 50-unit increase in daily glycaemic load. This means that if a woman’s daily diet includes the equivalent of 50 grams of glucose, her risk of endometrial cancer increases by 15% and the more glucose the higher the risk.

Not all studies have shown an association between glycaemic load and risk of endometrial cancer.

There are several ways in which glycaemic load may increase the risk of endometrial cancer. It is possible that the increased risk is due to a combination of hormonal factors and effects on the way cells produce energy.

Further information can be found at:

• Cancer Australia Position Statement – Lifestyle risk factors and the primary prevention of cancer

* Glycaemic load is a way of measuring the effect of different types of food on a person's blood glucose levels. Each ‘unit’ of glycaemic load is the same as eating one gram of glucose.