What Causes Ovarian Cancer?
August 2, 2023 | by Yashaswi Pathakamuri | Posted in FAQ's
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and producing hormones like estrogen and progesterone. The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood, but several risk factors have been identified that may increase the likelihood of developing this disease. It’s important to note that having one or more risk factors does not necessarily mean a person will develop ovarian cancer.
Here are some factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cancer:
- Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over the age of 50. However, it can affect women of any age.
- Family history: Women with a family history of ovarian cancer (especially in first-degree relatives like mother, sister, or daughter) or certain hereditary cancer syndromes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Personal history of cancer: Women who have had breast, colorectal, or endometrial cancer may have a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Inherited gene mutations: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1, BRCA2, and others (Lynch syndrome, BRIP1, RAD51C, RAD51D) are associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
- Reproductive history: Women who have never been pregnant or have had infertility or late menopause (after the age of 50) may have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT): Long-term use of estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy, particularly without progesterone, may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside the uterus, may have a higher risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer.
- Obesity: Being overweight or obese may be linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
- Smoking: Some studies suggest that smoking may increase the risk of developing certain types of ovarian cancer.
- Environmental factors: Exposure to certain environmental factors, such as asbestos or talcum powder, may be associated with a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.
While these risk factors are associated with a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer, the majority of ovarian cancer cases occur in women without any known risk factors. The disease is often diagnosed at later stages because early symptoms are often vague or go unnoticed. Therefore, it is essential for women to be aware of any persistent or unusual symptoms, such as bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, feeling full quickly, and changes in urinary habits, and seek medical attention if they experience any of these symptoms. Early detection and timely treatment can improve the prognosis for ovarian cancer. Regular check-ups and discussions with healthcare providers about risk factors and family history can also be beneficial for identifying potential risks and taking appropriate preventive measures.