Research Context: Aggressive Endometrial Cancer Linked to Metabolic Activity in Visceral Fat

Obesity is well established as a risk factor for endometrial cancer, also driving higher mortality rates among these patients. Previous research conducted at the University of Bergen had shown that relying solely on body mass index (BMI) to estimate obesity-related risk factors is insufficient. Instead, they found that a higher percentage of visceral fat is associated with poorer outcomes in endometrial cancer patients.

The researchers used positron emission tomography-computed tomography (PET-CT) to measure glucose uptake in visceral fat as an indicator of metabolic activity, and found that women with higher levels of metabolic activity in their visceral fat were more likely to be at a more advanced disease stage as well as to show metastasis to the lymph nodes.

The association between higher visceral fat metabolism and aggressive disease is likely driven by multiple mechanisms, namely chronic inflammation in visceral fat, which can release cytokines and fatty acids that promote tumor growth and immune evasion. This discovery could enable the use of routine clinical imaging techniques to help physicians identify high-risk patients and make more personalized treatment decisions.

Full article here: Aggressive Endometrial Cancer Linked to Metabolic Activity in Visceral Fat  

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The Women’s Cancer Research Foundation (WCRF) is one of the most active research organizations in the nation. We are dedicated to studying and evaluating novel treatments for women afflicted with breast, ovarian, endometrial, and cervical cancers. The WCRF persistently endeavors to make a difference in women’s lives by offering them hope, strength, and progress.