Healthy weight, diet and exercise
The most effective way to prevent endometrial cancer is to maintain a healthy weight.
The best way to avoid becoming overweight or obese is to eat healthily and exercise regularly.
A low-fat, high-fibre diet is recommended, including wholegrains and at least five portions a day of fresh fruit and vegetables.
For most people, at least 150 minutes (2 hours and 30 minutes) of moderate-intensity aerobic activity (i.e. cycling or fast walking) every week, at least five times a week, is recommended.
If you haven't exercised before, or haven't done it for some time, see your GP for a health check-up before you start a new exercise programme.
Soya
Some research has suggested that a diet high in soya may possibly help to prevent endometrial cancer. Soya contains isoflavens, which may help to protect the lining of the womb. Foods that are high in soya include soya beans and tofu. However, further research into this area has been recommended.
Contraception
Research has shown that long-term use of combination oral contraception (the contraceptive pill that contains both oestrogen and a synthetic version of progesterone) can lower the risk of endometrial cancer.
Other types of contraception such as contraceptive implants and the intrauterine system (IUS) work by releasing progestogen (a synthetic version of progesterone). These may also reduce the risk of endometrial cancer.
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