Estrogen-dependent cancers are cancers that grow in response to the hormone estrogen. These include certain types of breast cancer, uterine cancer, and ovarian cancer.

In these cancers, estrogen can bind to receptors on cancer cells, fueling their growth and spread.

Treatments for estrogen-dependent cancers often focus on reducing estrogen levels or blocking estrogen receptors to slow cancer progression, using therapies such as hormone-blocking medications.

Cancer resources

To discover more evidence-based information and resources for cancer, visit our dedicated hub.

A young Black woman with glasses and a head scarf looking out of a window in a brightly lit room. Share on Pinterest
The Good Brigade/Getty Images

Estrogen-dependent cancers are cancers that rely on the hormone estrogen to grow.

In these cancers, estrogen binds to the estrogen receptors on cancer cells, stimulating the growth and division of the cancer.

Hormone therapies like tamoxifen or aromatase inhibitors work by blocking estrogen’s effects or reducing its production. This can help slow or stop tumor growth.

Common estrogen-dependent cancers include:

  • Estrogen receptor-positive (ER+) breast cancer: Breast cancer is the most common hormone-dependent cancer in women. Most breast cancers are estrogen receptor-positive (ER+), meaning the cells grow in response to estrogen. However, not all breast cancers are ER+, and some do not respond to estrogen. These include estrogen receptor-negative (ER-) breast cancers and breast cancers with progesterone receptors only (PR+).
  • Endometrial (uterine) cancer: Estrogen can promote the growth of cells in the uterine lining, leading to some types of endometrial cancer.
  • Ovarian cancer: Certain ovarian cancers are estrogen-dependent. These cancers may grow more quickly in response to estrogen.
  • Cervical cancer: Although not as commonly estrogen-dependent, some cervical cancers may be influenced by estrogen levels.

Doctors treat estrogen-dependent cancers using a variety of approaches. They will tailor treatments to the specific type of cancer and the patient’s individual circumstances.

Common treatment methods include the following.

Hormone therapy

Hormone therapy for estrogen-dependent cancers aims to reduce estrogen levels or block estrogen receptors to slow the cancer’s progression.

Hormone therapy may involve:

  • Selective estrogen receptor modulators (SERMs): Drugs like tamoxifen block estrogen receptors on cancer cells, inhibiting the growth of the cancer.
  • Aromatase inhibitors: Medications such as anastrozole and letrozole reduce estrogen production in postmenopausal women, lowering estrogen levels in the body.
  • Selective estrogen receptor degraders (SERDs): These drugs, like fulvestrant, help degrade estrogen receptors and inhibit tumor growth.

Surgery

Surgery for estrogen-dependent cancers may involve:

  • Tumor removal: Surgical procedures may be used to remove tumors in the breast, uterus, or ovaries.
  • Oophorectomy: Removal of the ovaries can reduce estrogen production, especially in premenopausal women.

Other treatments

Other general treatments for cancer include:

  • Radiation therapy: Radiation can be used to target and destroy cancer cells, often in conjunction with other treatments.
  • Chemotherapy: While chemotherapy is not specifically aimed at estrogen-dependent cancers, it may be used to treat more aggressive forms or to target metastatic disease.
  • Targeted therapy: Some newer therapies target specific molecular pathways involved in cancer growth and may be used alongside traditional treatments.
  • Clinical trials: Patients may be offered the option to participate in clinical trials exploring new treatments or combinations of existing therapies.

The choice of treatment depends on factors like the cancer’s stage, hormone receptor status, the patient’s overall health, and personal preferences.

Regular monitoring and follow-up care are essential to assess treatment effectiveness and manage any side effects.

A person should contact a doctor about their estrogen-dependent cancer if they experience any of the following symptoms or situations:

  • Symptoms: If a person has new, unexplained symptoms, such as persistent pelvic pain or discomfort, unusual changes in menstrual cycles, breast lumps, or changes in breast tissue, such as swelling, pain, or skin changes.
  • Family history: Having a family history of estrogen-dependent cancers, such as breast or ovarian cancers, may warrant earlier screening or consultation.
  • Increased risk factors: People with risk factors such as obesity or prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy may require more regular check-ups.
  • Concerns about hormonal changes: A person may wish to ask a doctor about their chance of cancer if have changes in their hormone therapy or related medications that might affect estrogen levels.

What cancers can high estrogen cause?

The most common estrogen-dependent cancer in females is estrogen receptor positive or ER+ breast cancer.

In this type of cancer, estrogen receptors are present on the surface of cancer cells. This means the cancer cells can use estrogen to grow and multiply.

While ER+ breast cancer cells respond to estrogen, high estrogen does not necessarily cause this type of cancer. It is important to note that cancer development involves multiple factors, including genetic, environmental, and lifestyle factors.

Regular screenings and monitoring for those at higher risk can help with early detection and management.

Which high-estrogen foods should I avoid for breast cancer?

Certain foods contain phytoestrogens, which are plant-based compounds that can mimic estrogen in the body.

People might think that limiting foods containing phytoestrogen could help prevent breast cancer.

However, there is evidence to suggest that foods with these compounds actually lower the risk of breast cancer and reduce the rates of breast cancer re-occurring.

It may, therefore, be a good idea to include these foods as part of a balanced diet.

Some foods that may be high in phytoestrogens include:

Researchers have connected some foods and drinks to an increased cancer risk. Foods and substances that a person may wish to limit or avoid include:

  • processed and red meats
  • alcohol
  • tobacco
  • artificial sweeteners

Estrogen-dependent cancers respond to the hormone estrogen, which can stimulate the growth of certain cancer cells.

The most common type of estrogen-dependent cancer is ER+ breast cancer. Estrogen can also influence endometrial cancer, ovarian cancer, and some forms of cervical cancer.

Treatment options typically involve hormone therapies aimed at blocking estrogen’s effects or reducing its production.

Regular screenings and monitoring are particularly important for individuals at higher risk due to factors such as family history or hormonal medications.