Endometrial cancer

The impact of our research

With no screening test available for endometrial cancer, advances in medical research are critical. Research can help us improve treatments, therapies, and survival rates.

Currently, there’s no simple way to stop endometrial cancer developing and no targeted treatments for the most aggressive sub-types. Our QIMR Berghofer researchers are leading the field and giving hope to women with endometrial cancer.

Our scientists have found that testosterone could play an important role in endometrial cancer developing. This raises exciting possibilities for screening, prevention, and treatment options.

We’re using genetics to predict which women are most at risk of endometrial cancer. New research has identified the specific genes that appear to be linked to increased risk.

We’re investigating environmental causes and finding ways to stop the spread of endometrial cancer.

About endometrial cancer

What is endometrial cancer?

The endometrium is the lining of the uterus. Endometrial cancer begins in the cells of this lining.

More women are being diagnosed with endometrial cancer each year, in large part due to increasing rates of obesity.

Some types of endometrial cancer are very aggressive, with poor survival rates. These types are less common and we don't understand enough about the causes. More research is urgently needed into risk factors and treatment options.

What are the symptoms of endometrial cancer?

Common symptoms of endometrial cancer include:

abnormal vaginal bleeding
difficulty urinating
abdominal pain
unexplained weight loss.

How is endometrial cancer treated?

Only five drugs have been approved to treat endometrial cancer – just two since 1971.

Current treatment is usually a total hysterectomy, which is surgery to remove the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries.

Facts about endometrial cancer

3,000+

New cases of endometrial cancer in Australia each year.

In Australia

Endometrial cancer is the most common type of gynaecological cancer in high-income countries like Australia.

Next 10 years

Deaths from endometrial cancer are predicted to rise significantly over the next decade.

Our endometrial cancer research

Cancer Genetic Susceptibility

This lab, led by Associate Professor Tracy O’Mara, studies the role of genetics in the risk and development of endometrial cancer. The team's three main areas of investigation are identifying how to prevent it, finding better ways to predict those at risk, and developing new treatments.

“Endometrial cancer rates are rising in many countries. It’s an ongoing and increasing problem, yet it is still under-researched compared to other cancers.”

Associate Professor Tracy O’Mara

Gynaecological Cancers

This group, led by Professor Penelope Webb, investigates all aspects of gynaecological cancer, from causes to diagnosis, patterns of care, quality of life, and survival. The team focuses on how environmental factors interact with genetics to trigger endometrial cancer.

“Our research explores the dance between genetics and environmental factors as we aim to unravel endometrial cancer's origin and evolution. Our goal is to pave the way for improved diagnosis and care."

Professor Penny Webb

Medical Genomics

This lab, led by Dr Nic Waddell, uses next-generation genetic sequencing to understand how tumours develop and how our immune system responds. Their aim is to shorten the pathway to ‘personalised medicine’ to improve the diagnosis, management, and treatment of endometrial cancer patients.

“Using next-generation sequencing, our research is decoding the unique genomic signatures of individual patients, to unlock the key to personalised medicine. This approach holds the potential to revolutionise treatment strategies, offering tailored interventions that address the unique molecular characteristics of each individual's cancer.”

Dr Nic Waddell

Molecular Cancer Epidemiology

Led by Professor Amanda Spurdle, this lab studies the genetics, distribution, and incidence of endometrial cancer. The team are trying to identify the genetic and environmental causes of endometrial cancer.

“As we develop a more comprehensive view of the genetic risk factors for endometrial cancer, we can start to work out which are the best management options for patients.”

Professor Amanda Spurdle

Molecular Oncology

Led by Dr Olga Kondrashova, this lab focuses on identifying the most suitable cancer treatment strategies and treatment biomarkers to enable precision oncology.

“We have access to unique samples from multiple Australian-led clinical trials for breast, ovarian and endometrial cancer. We are interrogating the cancer samples using the latest genomic technologies to link cancer features with treatment responses. This work is critical for enabling patient-centred medicine.”