What is the most common gynecologic cancer in the United States?

The most common gynecologic cancer in the United States is uterine cancer, specifically endometrial cancer, which arises from the lining of the uterus. Factors contributing to the prevalence of this cancer include hormonal influences, obesity, and age, with the majority of cases diagnosed in women over the age of 50.

Uterine cancer is often detected at an early stage due to the symptom of abnormal vaginal bleeding, making it one of the more manageable cancers when caught early. Its incidence has increased in recent years, likely linked to the rise in risk factors such as obesity and an aging population.

In contrast, vaginal, cervical, and ovarian cancers, while significant, have lower incidence rates compared to uterine cancer. Cervical cancer rates have declined due to effective screening programs like Pap smears and the HPV vaccination. Ovarian cancer, although highly impactful in terms of mortality, is less common than uterine cancer, presenting more often in the later stages when symptoms are less evident. Vaginal cancer is the rarest among these types, contributing to its lower prevalence rates.