Understanding disparities in endometrial cancer
Research type
Research Study
Full title
Understanding disparities in the diagnosis and treatment of women who have been treated for endometrial cancer
IRAS ID
368784
Contact name
Aleksandra Gentry-Maharaj
Contact email
Sponsor organisation
University College London
Clinicaltrials.gov Identifier
Z63410620250946, UCL data protection registration number
Duration of Study in the UK
9 years, 11 months, 24 days
Research summary
In the UK, cancer of the lining of the uterus (endometrial cancer (EC) hereafter)—is the most common gynaecological cancer, with approximately 9,800 new cases diagnosed each year (Cancer Research UK, 2025). Since 1990, the incidence of endometrial cancer in the UK has risen by nearly 58% (Cancer Research UK, 2025). Athough Black women have a lower incidence of EC compared to White women, their outcomes are significantly poorer, with mortality rates nearly double those of White women (ONS, 2012; Moss et al., 2023). This disparity in mortality is partly attributed to differences in EC histology and advanced stage at diagnosis. Black women are more likely to be diagnosed with aggressive histological subtypes such as high-grade serous carcinomas and uterine sarcomas (Javadian et al., 2021). Compared with other ethnic groups, Black women are also more likely to be diagnosed with an advanced disease stage (Doll et al., 2020) and more likely to have higher mortality (Moss et al., 2023).
Given the higher mortality rates and later-stage diagnoses of EC among Black women and women experiencing poverty and economic hardship, understanding the barriers they face in accessing timely care is crucial for improving outcomes. Previous research highlights disparities in symptom recognition, healthcare access, diagnosis, and treatment. Previous studies have primarily focused on epidemiological data and physiological differences, yet we lack a clear understanding of how patients and healthcare providers understand and experience these disparities. This research takes a patient-centred approach to uncover systemic and experiential factors contributing to inequalities. Through consultation with patient groups, this study has been identified as valuable in addressing gaps in culturally sensitive awareness, diagnostic pathways, and treatment equity.
The proposed study aims to understand the nature and drivers of disparities around endometrial cancer outcomes for Black women and/or women experiencing poverty and economic hardship by conducting a national audit of EC treatment and outcomes and exploratory qualitative research with poorly served women, their friends and family members, health care providers, and community groups.
REC name
West Midlands - Solihull Research Ethics Committee
REC reference
26/WM/0070
Date of REC Opinion
14 Apr 2026
REC opinion
Favourable Opinion