Morbidly obese women at much higher risk of developing endometrial cancer: Docs

Morbidly obese women are at a "much higher risk" of developing endometrial cancer compared to those with a normal body mass index, doctors at a city hospital said today.

Endometrial cancer arises from the endometrium -- the lining of the uterus.

The hospital today shared case studies of nine morbidly obese patients, aged 50-70 who were treated there for this type of cancer in the past few months. Two patients also shared their experiences during an interaction with the members of the press here.

BMI (body mass index) is defined by the ratio of an individual's height to his or her weight. Normal BMI ranges from 20-25. People having BMI above 40 are considered morbidly obese.

According to Max Institute of Cancer Care, "Endometrial cancer is becoming increasingly common in post-menopausal women, though incidence in women as young as 25 years of age have also been observed. There is a strong link between uncontrolled obesity and endometrial cancer."
Amish Chaudhary, Senior Consultant, Gynaecology Oncology and Robotics, Max Super Speciality Hospital, Saket, said, "The risk of endometrial cancer increases by nine times in morbidly obese women, as compared to women with normal BMI. In most cases, surgery is the most effective treatment."