Breast cancer
The most common cancer in women. Most breast cancers occur after 50. Mammograms find cancers before they can be felt. In Australia, BreastScreen offers free mammograms every two years from 40, with invitations from 50 to 74.
Know what is normal for you. Report a new lump, skin dimpling, nipple change or discharge, or a change in shape. Alcohol raises risk with every daily drink. Staying active and keeping weight in a healthy range lowers it.
Endometrial cancer
Cancer of the lining of the uterus. It is most common after menopause. The main warning sign is bleeding after menopause, which is why any such bleeding needs checking. About one woman in ten with bleeding after menopause has endometrial cancer, and most are found early.
Higher body weight raises risk, because fat tissue makes oestrogen. Oestrogen taken without a progestogen raises risk in women with a uterus.
Cervical cancer
Almost all cervical cancer is caused by human papillomavirus. It is largely preventable through vaccination and screening. In Australia, cervical screening tests for the virus every five years from 25 to 74. You can collect your own sample.
Ovarian cancer
Less common but often found late. Symptoms are vague: bloating, feeling full quickly, pelvic or abdominal pain, and needing to pass urine more often. See a practitioner if these happen most days for three weeks or more. Inherited faults in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 raise risk sharply. A family history of breast or ovarian cancer is worth raising.
Bowel cancer
Risk rises from 50. In Australia, a free home test is available every two years from 45 to 74. Report bleeding from the bottom, a lasting change in bowel habit or unexplained weight loss at any age.
Skin and lung cancer
Australia has one of the highest melanoma rates in the world. Check your skin and see a practitioner about a new or changing spot. Stopping smoking at any age cuts lung cancer risk, and lung cancer also occurs in women who have never smoked.
Life after cancer
Cancer treatment can cause sudden menopause and severe symptoms. Treatments without hormones work for hot flushes. Sexual and vaginal symptoms are treatable. Ask for a plan, not just a warning.
See a practitioner if
- Any bleeding after menopause
- A breast lump or change
- Bloating, fullness or pelvic pain most days for three weeks
- A new or changing skin spot
- Blood in your stool or a lasting change in bowel habit
Common questions
Does hormone therapy cause cancer?
Combined hormone therapy adds a small breast cancer risk, fewer than one extra case per 1,000 women per year of use. Oestrogen alone after hysterectomy did not raise risk in the largest trial. See the hormone therapy page.
Should I have the human papillomavirus vaccine in midlife?
It is approved in some countries up to 45. It helps most if you may have new partners. Ask your practitioner.
Why does weight matter after menopause?
After menopause, fat tissue becomes the main source of oestrogen. Higher levels raise the risk of breast and endometrial cancer.
- Cancer Australia, cancer screening programmes
- Cancer Council Australia, cancer risk and prevention
- The Menopause Society, 2022 Hormone Therapy Position Statement
This page is education, not medical advice. Talk to your doctor or menopause practitioner about your own care. In an emergency, call your local emergency number.