How do you get ovarian cancer?

The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified that increase the likelihood of developing the disease:

1. Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, and it is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50.

2. Family history and genetic factors: Having a close family member (such as a mother, sister, or daughter) with ovarian cancer or breast cancer increases your risk. Certain inherited genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, can significantly elevate the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

3. Personal history of breast cancer: Women diagnosed with breast cancer have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

4. Endometriosis: A condition where tissue that normally lines the uterus grows outside the uterus, particularly on the ovaries, has been linked to a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.

5. Nulliparity: Women who have never been pregnant have a higher risk of ovarian cancer compared to women who have had children.

6. Obesity: Excess weight, particularly after menopause, has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

7. Prolonged use of certain hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Long-term use of estrogen-only HRT (without progesterone) has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer, particularly in women who use it for more than 10 years.

8. Talcum powder use: Some studies suggest that prolonged use of talcum powder in the genital area may increase the risk of ovarian cancer, although the evidence is still inconclusive.

9. Certain occupations and exposures: Certain occupations that involve exposure to certain chemicals, asbestos, or radiation may slightly elevate the risk of ovarian cancer.

It is important to note that having one or more of these risk factors does not necessarily mean you will develop ovarian cancer. Most women with these risk factors do not develop the disease. Conversely, some women who develop ovarian cancer may not have any of these known risk factors.