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Could a common hormone condition raise your risk for cancer? For the millions of women living with polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS), the answer may be yes, at least for some types of cancer.

PCOS can cause irregular periods, weight gain, and fertility issues. Researchers are also learning more about how PCOS can impact long-term health, including the risk for some cancers.

What is polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)?

As many as 5 million women in the United States have PCOS. This condition affects a pair of reproductive organs called the ovaries. The ovaries produce three types of hormones in women.

Ovaries make most of the two ¡°female¡± hormones known as estrogen and progesterone. Working together with signals from the brain, these hormones tell the ovaries and uterus what to do each month during the menstrual cycle. They control when an egg is released (ovulation) and when a period starts. Estrogen also supports bone and heart health.

Ovaries normally make small amounts of androgen hormones in women as well. These are often called ¡°male¡± hormones. Men naturally have higher levels of androgens than women. In women, androgens support bone health and are involved in libido, muscle health, mood, and more.

PCOS causes small fluid-filled sacs (cysts) to form on the ovaries. This results in a hormone shift: more androgens, less progesterone, and sometimes less estrogen. Having higher levels of androgens but lower levels of progesterone can affect ovulation and cause irregular periods. This type of hormone imbalance often leads to fertility problems in women.

Having extra androgens can lead to insulin resistance, which can lead to higher blood sugar levels. This can raise the risk for diabetes.

Can PCOS increase endometrial cancer risk?

¡°PCOS can increase the risk of certain cancers, especially endometrial (uterine) cancer. Women with PCOS have fewer ovulations, which means less progesterone and more chronic estrogen exposure to the uterine lining. This stimulates the uterine lining and increases cancer risk,¡± said Eleonora Teplinsky, MD, an expert and Head of Breast and Gynecologic Medical Oncology at Valley Health System.

Women with PCOS have about a 2 to 3 times higher risk of developing endometrial cancer. Some studies show a slightly higher risk compared to women without PCOS.

At this time, there are no screening tests or exams to find endometrial cancer early in people who are at average risk. The American Cancer Society recommends that all women,?around the time they reach menopause, talk about the risks and symptoms of endometrial cancer with their doctors. They should also report if they have any symptoms (see below) . It¡¯s important to note that HPV and Pap tests used for cervical cancer screening are not usually effective at?finding endometrial cancer.

Signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer

¡°Having PCOS does not mean you will get endometrial cancer, but it¡¯s a reason to be proactive and aware of symptoms,¡± said Dr. Teplinsky.

Common signs and symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

• Irregular vaginal bleeding, including spotting, such as between periods or after menopause
• Unusual vaginal discharge
• Bloating or a feeling of pressure in the abdomen
• Pain in the pelvis (lower abdominal area)

¡°These symptoms may be due to other conditions, but endometrial cancer should be considered. Any unusual or persistent symptoms should always be evaluated promptly. Understanding your risks, watching for symptoms, and working with your health care team on a plan can make a real difference,¡± said Dr. Teplinsky.

Is there a connection between PCOS and other types of cancer?

According to current research, endometrial cancer has the strongest known link to PCOS. Here are some other research findings:

• PCOS does not appear to increase a woman¡¯s risk of breast cancer.
• For women with PCOS who are younger than 54, the risk of ovarian cancer may be somewhat higher.
• Researchers are studying a possible link between PCOS and pancreatic cancer.

Ways to manage PCOS and lower cancer risk

There is no way to fully prevent PCOS. But if you have PCOS, you can take steps to manage the condition. Some actions include getting regular check-ups, eating well, staying active, and keeping body weight in a healthy range. These same habits and others can also help improve your general health and reduce your overall cancer risk.

¡°Women should understand that regular periods are protective. Going long stretches without ovulation can raise cancer risk. Managing your weight and insulin resistance are also important ways to lower cancer risk,¡± said Dr. Teplinsky.

Learn more about endometrial cancer risk and prevention from the American Cancer Society:

• Endometrial Cancer Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention
• Can Endometrial Cancer Be Found Early?
• Signs and Symptoms of Endometrial Cancer
• Cancer Risk and Prevention
• ¿ìè¶ÌÊÓƵ CancerRisk360 Assessment

Dr. Teplinsky is a member of .