Which of the following is a risk factor for endometrial cancer?

Which of the following is a risk factor for endometrial cancer?

• A. Obesity
• B. Early menopause
• C. Combined OCP use
• D. Regular exercise

Answer: (A)

Obesity is a risk factor because extra adipose tissue increases estrogen levels through peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogen. This unopposed estrogen stimulates the endometrial lining, leading to proliferative buildup and a higher chance of malignant transformation. Early menopause reduces lifetime estrogen exposure, so it’s not a risk factor. Combined oral contraceptives add progestin, which opposes estrogen's effects on the endometrium and lowers risk. Regular exercise also helps lower risk by reducing obesity and improving metabolic health.

Obesity is a risk factor because extra adipose tissue increases estrogen levels through peripheral conversion of androgens to estrogen. This unopposed estrogen stimulates the endometrial lining, leading to proliferative buildup and a higher chance of malignant transformation. Early menopause reduces lifetime estrogen exposure, so it’s not a risk factor. Combined oral contraceptives add progestin, which opposes estrogen's effects on the endometrium and lowers risk. Regular exercise also helps lower risk by reducing obesity and improving metabolic health.