Endometrial cancer and obesity

ABSTRACT

Endometrial cancer is the most common malignancy of the female reproductive system diagnosed in the United States. The most commonly cited cause is unopposed endogenous estrogen produced by excess adipose tissue. Endometrial cancer typically is diagnosed in postmenopausal women with a body mass index (BMI) of 25 kg/m2 or more. This article reviews how clinicians can use a systematic approach to fill the awkward silence when talking with patients about weight. Meaningful conversations about weight loss can be achieved using the 5 A's for obesity management with the goal of decreasing diagnosis and increasing survivorship from endometrial cancer.