Does endometriosis increase cancer risk?

Yes — even though endometriosis is not cancer, and most people with endometriosis never develop cancer, it increases risk of ovarian cancer up to ten times. Details matter and evaluation with a specialist who understands cancer as well as endometriosis can help determine your individual risk. Overall, this still affects a small number of people but it is very prudent to look carefully at family history and potential genetic testing. Research suggests there may be a slightly increased risk for other cancer subtypes as well, but an individual’s overall (absolute) risk for these generally remains low.

That said, some forms of endometriosis—particularly deep infiltrating disease and ovarian endometriomas—can behave in aggressive ways inside the pelvis, distort anatomy, and share a few molecular features seen in cancers. This doesn’t mean the disease is malignant, but it can make treatment more complex and sometimes requires advanced, organ-sparing surgical skill when fertility preservation is a priority. If you’re worried about your personal risk or have an endometrioma or deep disease suspected on imaging, our team can review your history and studies and help you understand what applies to you.