Feb 25, 2025 Story by: Editor
A recent study has found that a commonly used algorithm for detecting endometrial cancer in Black women is not reliable. Researchers suggest that a tissue biopsy provides a more accurate diagnosis for this form of cancer. Endometrial cancer is the most prevalent gynecologic cancer among Black women in the United States and is often diagnosed at later stages, increasing the risk of death. Symptoms include pelvic pain, vaginal bleeding, and difficulty urinating.
Transvaginal ultrasound, a diagnostic imaging technique used in the study, offers a more detailed view of a woman’s pelvic organs compared to a standard pelvic ultrasound.
The study, recently published in JAMA Oncology, analyzed ultrasound data from 1,500 Black women who had undergone hysterectomies at 10 health centers. A hysterectomy is a surgical procedure to remove the uterus.
Upon reviewing the data, researchers discovered that a thinner endometrium did not necessarily indicate a lower risk of cancer. Only 10% of women diagnosed with endometrial cancer had an endometrial thickness below the commonly used 4 mm cut-off point. This finding highlights the inaccuracy of this test in detecting the disease.
A leading medical expert criticized the test’s reliability, stating, “This test is supposed to be 99% to 100% accurate. But it is not suitable for Black women as it is not accurate enough.” The expert also emphasized that it “cannot be considered an effective strategy.”
The study underscores that ultrasound-based detection methods are less accurate for Black women than for white women. In many cases, ultrasounds indicate normal endometrial thickness even when cancer is present, leading to a higher likelihood of false-negative results. Experts stress the urgent need for more effective diagnostic tests to improve early detection and reduce the risk of endometrial cancer among Black women. Source: Med Tigo
