Endometriosis Linked to Cancer
Women with a history of endometriosis are more likely to develop
three types of ovarian cancer, according to research.
Scientists have found that endometriosis,which affects about 10%
of women of reproductive age and occurs when pieces of the uterus
lining appear outside the womb, is linked to a higher risk of clear
cell, endometrioid and low-grade serious cancers.
Several previous studies have suggested the disease is associated
with a risk of developing epithelial ovarian cancer, but the new
study, published online in the Lancet Oncology, confirms the risk
and the relationship with these specific ovarian cancers.
Lead author Celeste Leigh Pearce, from the University of Southern
California, said: "This breakthrough could lead to better
identification of women at increased risk of ovarian cancer and
could provide a basis for increased cancer surveillance of the
The study used data from more than 23,000 women.
© 2012 The Herald.