Losing weight as a result of dieting or surgery by women who are obese may be associated with a decreased risk of endometrial cancer.

It is estimated that at least one-quarter of cases of endometrial cancer in Australia could be prevented if all women had a healthy weight.*

Increasing body fatness in adult women increases the risk of endometrial cancer. People who are obese have higher levels of the female hormone oestrogen, which can increase the risk of endometrial cancer. They may also have higher levels of certain proteins and other factors in their blood caused by inflammation, which may increase the risk of endometrial cancer. Weight loss is likely to reduce levels of these hormones and proteins, decreasing the risk of endometrial cancer.

Further information can be found at:

• Cancer Australia Position Statement – Lifestyle risk factors and the primary prevention of cancer
• Healthy Weight Guide – Australian Government Department of Health
• Australia’s Physical Activity and Sedentary Behaviour Guidelines – Australian Government Department of Health

*Body mass index (BMI) is a measure of body fatness based on a person’s weight in relation to their height. It applies to most adult men and women aged 20 years and over. Commonly accepted BMI ranges are: underweight, under 18.5 kg/m^2; normal weight, 18.5 to 25 kg/m²; overweight, 25 to 30 kg/m²; obese, over 30 kg/m².