Can You Help Prevent Ovarian Cancer?
Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer- Age: risk increases with age; typically after age 40
- Family history:
- Having a mother, sister, or daughter with ovarian cancer increases risk
- Known family mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene or Lynch syndrome
- Genetic factors: women who inherit a genetic mutation in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Personal reproductive history:
- Nulliparity (never having children)
- Late menopause (after age 52)
- Menstrual periods starting early (age 12 or younger)
- Endometriosis
- Hormone therapy:
- Prolonged use of estrogen replacement therapy without progesterone
- Obesity: being overweight or obese increases risk of developing ovarian cancer
- Exposure to asbestos
- Pelvic inflammatory disease (PID): women with a history of PID have a slightly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Prevention Strategies:
- Consider taking oral contraceptives: lower the risk of epithelial ovarian cancer when used at least five years.
- Complete pregnancy and breastfeed if possible.
- Consider Tubal Ligation: Women who have a tubal ligation (surgical sterilization) may have a lower risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Maintain a healthy weight:
- Stay within a healthy weight range according to BMI
- If overweight, consider losing weight gradually
- Exercise regularly:
- Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate-intensity exercise most days of the week
- Walking, running, swimming, and biking are all good choices
- Follow a healthy diet:
- Choose a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains.
- Include healthy fats, such as those found in avocado, nuts, and olive oil.
- Limit your intake of red and processed meats.
- Don't smoke:
- Smoking is associated with a number of health risks, including an increased risk of ovarian cancer
- Limit alcohol consumption:
- Heavy drinking is associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer
- Talk to your doctor about genetic counseling and screening:
- If you have a family history of ovarian cancer or other risk factors, talk to your doctor about genetic counseling and screening options
- Options may include blood tests, imaging procedures, and/or prophylactic surgery