The polycystic ovary syndrome and gynecological cancer risk

Gynecol Endocrinol. 2020 Apr;36(4):289-293. doi: 10.1080/09513590.2020.1730794. Epub 2020 Feb 27.

Abstract

This review updates the knowledge regarding the association between the polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and the risk of gynecological cancer. We performed a literature review of clinical and epidemiological studies concerning PCOS and the risk of breast, endometrial and ovarian cancer after selecting information by quality of scientific methodology. It was found that evidence does not support a link between PCOS and breast cancer risk. There is an increased risk of endometrial cancer, while data concerning ovarian cancer are contradictory. Regarding PCOS and its association to cervical, fallopian tube, and vulvar cancer, the quality of evidence is heterogeneous. In conclusion, women with PCOS should be screened for endometrial cancer and more research is warranted to determine in this population the true risk of developing other gynecological cancers such as breast and ovarian.

Keywords: Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS); breast cancer; endometrial cancer; gynecological cancer; ovarian cancer.

Publication types

  • Review

MeSH terms

  • Breast Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Breast Neoplasms / etiology*
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Endometrial Neoplasms / etiology
  • Female
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / epidemiology
  • Genital Neoplasms, Female / etiology*
  • Humans
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / epidemiology
  • Ovarian Neoplasms / etiology
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / complications*
  • Polycystic Ovary Syndrome / epidemiology
  • Risk Factors