Study reveals keys to rise in uterine cancer deaths

A rare but aggressive form of uterine cancer appears to be responsible for the increase in deaths from the disease in the US, especially among black women, researchers reported Thursday.

Their study showed that over eight years, the aggressive type increased by 2.7% per year, while the less aggressive type remained stable. The death rate from uterine cancer in black women is more than twice as high overall, and from the more aggressive type, compared to other racial and ethnic groups.

The aggressive type, called type 2 endometrial cancer, is more difficult to treat. By the end of the study period, it accounted for about 20% of cases and 45% of deaths.

“Most cancers have improved in the last 20 years. It is alarming that we have not had the same success in treating uterine cancer,” said Dr. Pamela Soliman of Anderson Cancer Center in Houston, who was not involved in the study. study.

“This allows us to focus our efforts on specific areas that could potentially have a greater impact on mortality,” Soliman said.