What you need to know about fibroids
What you need to know about fibroids
By Okunlola Christiana OmololaÂ
Although the precise etiology of uterine fibroids is uncertain, a combination of developmental factors, hormonal influences (particularly progesterone and estrogen), and genetic alterations are responsible for them. Soft muscular cells in the womb give rise to these noncancerous tumors, which frequently enlarge during the reproductive years and contract during menopause.
Key Causes and Contributing Factors:
- Hormones (Estrogen & Progesterone):Â These stimulate the development of the uterine lining during each menstrual cycle and appear to promote the growth of fibroids.
- Genetic Changes: Many fibroids contain mutations in genes different from those in normal uterine muscle cells.
- Family History:Â Having a mother, sister, or grandmother with a history of fibroids significantly increases risk.
- Extracellular Matrix (ECM):Â Fibroids contain higher amounts of ECM, which makes cells stick together and stores growth factors that promote growth.
- Stem Cells:Â Fibroids likely develop from a single stem cell in the uterine smooth muscle tissue.
Risk Factors:
- Race:Â Black women are more likely to develop fibroids, often at a younger age, and they tend to grow faster.
- Obesity:Â Higher body weight is linked to increased estrogen levels, which can stimulate growth.
- Lifestyle & Diet:Â Diets high in red meat, alcohol, and caffeine may increase risk.
- Other Factors:Â Early onset of menstruation (before age 12) increases risk, while having children may lower it.
Fibroids are not cancerous and do not increase the risk of uterine cancer.
