General
Which cancers are linked to endometriosis, and how strong is the evidence?
The short answer
The strongest and most consistent evidence shows an association between endometriosis and clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancers. The risk increase is relative to people without endometriosis, and most patients with endometriosis will never develop cancer.
The strongest and most consistent evidence linking endometriosis to cancer involves certain ovarian cancer subtypes, especially clear cell and endometrioid ovarian cancer. Multiple studies have found this association, but it’s important to understand what it means: the increase is in relative risk compared with people without endometriosis, and it still does not mean cancer is expected or common.
Endometriosis is a benign condition, and most patients with endometriosis will never develop cancer. If you’re concerned about your personal risk (especially with an ovarian mass, persistent one-sided pain, or new symptoms that don’t fit your usual pattern), our team can help evaluate what’s going on and discuss appropriate next steps, including imaging review and surgical options when needed.
Where to go from here
Understand it, compare it with what you're feeling, then talk it through with us.
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Worried About Cancer Risks?
You’re not alone in your concerns about endometriosis and cancer risk. Our specialists understand these worries and can guide you through personalized assessments and care options.
Questions people ask next
All general questionsDo I need extra cancer screening with endometriosis or adenomyosis?
No universal extra cancer-screening program is recommended solely for endometriosis or adenomyosis. Additional evaluation may be appropriate based on your personal risk, especially with a strong family history, genetic predisposition or new concerning symptoms.
Can endometriosis become cancer?
Yes, endometriosis can rarely become cancer, but for the vast majority of people it does not. Endometriosis itself is not cancer, and the best-supported link is with certain ovarian cancers. The risk appears highest when the ovaries are involved.
Does endometriosis increase cancer risk?
Yes, endometriosis increases ovarian cancer risk up to ten times, but most people with endometriosis never develop cancer. Research suggests there may be a slightly increased risk of other cancer subtypes, though the overall risk for these generally remains low.
Why do endometriosis studies sometimes disagree?
Endometriosis studies can disagree because they include different forms of the condition, patient groups and prior treatments. Research teams may also use different diagnostic standards, measure different outcomes or follow patients for different lengths of time.
Further reading
Does Endometriosis Cause Cancer? What Research Actually Shows
Explore the link between endometriosis and cancer risk. Get reliable insights based on recent research for informed health decisions.
Evaluating Cancer Risk in Endometriosis
Understand how endometriosis affects ovarian, breast, thyroid, and cervical cancer risk, plus symptoms to watch, screening guidance, and ways to lower risk.
Endometriosis vs. Cancer: How to Tell The Symptoms Apart
Compare endometriosis vs. ovarian cancer symptoms: pain patterns, bleeding, GI signs, and red flags. Know when to see a gynecologist or gynecologic oncologist.
