What are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian Cancer Risk Factors: Causes & Prevention Strategies 

Having a risk factor does not indicate that the individual will get the disease, while some people who develop the disease may not have any known risk factors. Recent studies have shown that certain risk factors can increase the chance of developing epithelial ovarian cancer. 

These risk factors do not apply to other types of cancers, like stromal or germ-cell ovarian cancers. 

What is Ovarian Cancer? 

 
Ovarian cancer involves abnormal cell growth leading to tumour formation in one or both ovaries. It generally develops from three main types of cells within the ovaries: epithelial cells, germ cells, and stromal cells. If it is not diagnosed early, it can spread to surrounding tissues and other parts of the body. 

What are the Major Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer? 

 
These are the major risk factors for ovarian cancer in women: 

Age 

 
Age is a critical risk factor for the development of ovarian cancer in women. Ovarian cancer is more common after menopause, largely due to increasing age and cumulative genetic and environmental factors. Hormonal influences may play a role, but menopause-related hormonal changes are not a proven direct cause. 

Genetic Mutations 

 
Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2, which are involved in the DNA repair process, can cause DNA damage build-up, which eventually increases the risk of cancer. It disrupts the normal functioning of the ovarian cells, leading to uncontrolled cell growth and tumour formation.   

Family History 

 
If anyone in the family has ovarian cancer, then the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases. Genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 play a crucial role in DNA stability and cell repair mechanisms. Disruption in these mechanisms can increase the chance of ovarian cancer at the early or mid-stage of life.     

Endometriosis 

 
It is a condition where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus due to an unknown cause. Recent studies have shown that there is a direct relationship between this and the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Women suffering from endometriosis have elevated levels of oestrogen and oxidative stress, with endometrial lesions that are directly linked to symptoms of ovarian cancer.     

Reproductive History 
 

Some studies suggest a possible association between infertility and ovarian cancer, but it is unclear whether infertility itself or underlying conditions contribute to this risk.  However, the link between infertility and ovarian cancer development is still under investigation.   

Hormone Replacement Therapy 

 
Undergoing post-menopausal hormone replacement therapy, particularly with oestrogen and progesterone, can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. The administration of oestrogen or progesterone promotes excessive cell growth, leading to abnormal division and tumour formation.   

Obesity 

 
Weight gain is a common problem after reaching menopause due to subtle hormonal changes. Gaining weight or obesity can increase the risk of cancer development due to the accumulation of excessive adipose tissue (fat tissue). These contribute to the excessive release of oestrogen, leading to abnormal cell growth.   

Lifestyle 

 
Smoking and a diet consists of high in fat can increase the risk of ovarian cancer in females. Tobacco causes harmful carcinogenic toxins, which can influence different genetic mutations. Fat-rich dietary sources can increase blood levels of insulin and insulin-like growth factor (IGF), which plays a significant role in tumour angiogenesis. 

What are the Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer? 

 
Ovarian cancer can spread all over the abdomen before showing any symptoms. The growth rate of these cancer cells is much faster than other types of cancer. Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include: 

• Abdominal or pelvic pain causing discomfort or bloating. 
• Changes in eating habits lead to a loss of appetite. 
• Vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding, especially after menopause or outside the menstrual cycle. 
• Diarrhoea and Constipation can cause changes in bowel movements. 
• Increase in abdominal size. 
• Frequent Urination 
• Feeling very tired 
• Pain in the back 
• Unexplained weight loss 

 
If anyone develops any of these symptoms listed above, they must schedule a visit with a healthcare provider. Consulting with the healthcare provider can reduce the risk of further complications. 

How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?  

Ovarian cancer is difficult to diagnose in its early stages due to the lack of a reliable screening test. However, a health professional may perform a pelvic exam and lower abdominal USG to check for abnormalities. 

Some of the tests that might help you to find out if you are suffering from ovarian cancer are listed below: 

• Pelvic Exam 
• Ultrasound 
• Magnetic Resonance Imaging (MRI) 
• CT Scan (Computed Tomography) 
• PET Scan (Positron Emission Tomography) 
• Blood tests 
• Genetic testing9 for BRCA1, BRCA2 mutations) 
• Laparoscopy (In some cases, to confirm the diagnosis and evaluate the stage of cancer). 

Reader information: This content is intended for general informational and educational purposes only and should not be considered medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. The information provided is based on currently available medical knowledge and research but may not apply to every individual. Risk factors described do not guarantee the development of ovarian cancer, and the absence of known risk factors does not rule it out. Readers are advised to consult a qualified healthcare professional for personalized medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment, especially if they experience persistent or concerning symptoms. Medical guidelines and recommendations may change over time as new evidence emerges.

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