Rise in Uterine Cancer Among Younger Women: A Reflection of Modern Living

For decades, uterine cancer was largely considered a post-menopausal diagnosis, quietly filed away as a later-life risk. That assumption is rapidly unravelling. Across clinics in India’s metros and beyond, doctors are now seeing more women in their 30s and early 40s walking in with symptoms that once seemed unlikely for their age. The shift reflects how modern lifestyles, metabolic disorders, and hormonal disruptions are reshaping women’s health in ways medicine is only beginning to fully understand. Oncologists say the pattern is unmistakable. “One worrying trend we are increasingly noticing now is the rise of endometrial , or uterine, cancer in younger women," says Dr Rubina Shanawaz, Additional Director – Uro-Gynaecology and Gynec-Oncology at Fortis Hospital, Bengaluru. Echoing this, Dr Prathyush V, Consultant Medical Oncology Haematology at Apollo Hospitals, adds, “Obesity may account for up to 40 per cent of the observed endometrial cancer incidence, with obese women having a twofold to fivefold increased risk compared with women of normal weight." Experts point to a combination of sedentary living, weight gain, insulin resistance, and hormonal imbalance as key triggers. As physical activity drops and metabolic disorders rise, the body enters a state of chronic low-grade inflammation – a condition known to disrupt hormone regulation. Dr Shanawaz explains that insulin resistance and obesity alter oestrogen balance, creating prolonged stimulation of the uterine lining. “Women with polycystic ovary syndrome often experience ongoing unopposed oestrogen exposure, which becomes a significant biological risk factor," she says. Delayed childbearing, infertility, and irregular menstrual cycles further compound this risk. Pregnancy typically offers a protective hormonal reset, but fewer pregnancies and later maternal age mean that protection is reduced. Add genetic predisposition or family history, and the threshold for cancer development drops even earlier. One of the biggest challenges is late detection. Because endometrial cancer is still perceived as uncommon in younger women, early warning signs are frequently brushed aside. “Symptoms such as irregular or heavy menstrual bleeding, bleeding between cycles, or persistent pelvic discomfort are often dismissed as stress or hormonal changes," notes Dr Shanawaz. This delay in evaluation can push diagnosis to more advanced stages. Dr Prathyush emphasises that abnormal vaginal bleeding remains the most consistent red flag. “Significant changes in the menstrual cycle, pelvic pain, or any unexpected bleeding – especially after menopause – should never be ignored," he says. The link between weight and uterine cancer is particularly strong. Excess fat tissue produces higher levels of circulating oestrogen, which stimulates the endometrium continuously. “Obesity is associated with elevated oestrogen levels and significantly increases risk. Diabetes also contributes independently to higher incidence," Dr Prathyush explains. Urban lifestyles, processed diets, and reduced movement have made these metabolic conditions more common, placing younger women squarely in the risk zone. Hormone exposure from certain therapies or medications, alongside changing healthcare access between urban and rural populations, may also influence incidence rates. The reassuring news: endometrial cancer is highly treatable when caught early. Timely screening and symptom awareness dramatically improve survival. Doctors advise maintaining a healthy weight, exercising regularly, managing blood sugar levels, and seeking medical evaluation for persistent menstrual irregularities. Open conversations around menstrual health, still a taboo for many, are critical. The rising incidence of uterine cancer among younger women is not simply a medical anomaly but a reflection of modern living. Recognising symptoms early, addressing metabolic health, and prioritising preventive care can reverse the trend. Awareness, not age, may prove to be the strongest defence.