Uterine cancer. Light micrograph (LM) of a section through a cancerous tumour (adenocarcinoma) of the uterus. Adenocarcinoma arises from the glandular lining of the uterus (the endometrium). The tumour (purple) still shows the porous structure of glandular tissue. This form of cancer occurs in older women. It is associated with increased lifetime exposure to oestrogen. Conditions which prevent ovulation increase oestrogen exposure. Obesity is also a risk factor because fatty tissue (adipose) produces oestrogen. It accounts for as much as 75 percent of all uterine cancers. Endometrial adenocarcinoma is commonly detected early and has a high cure rate. Treatment is usually to remove the womb (hysterectomy). Magnification: x 150 when printed at 10 centimetres wide. Human tissue.