There is no known cause of ovarian cancer, but genetic testing can pinpoint whether a woman is at risk of developing the disease. Research in the fight against ovarian cancer gives hope that its cause will be known and a cure can be found. In the meantime, your best tool is frequent checkups for early detection.
Age
The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age. It's uncommon for women who are under 40 years old to develop ovarian cancer. The risk increases after menopause.
Genetic
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can cause ovarian and breast cancer. Women who have inherited these genes are two to three times more likely to develop either cancer. Five to 10 percent of ovarian cancers are caused by mutations in these genes. Having one close family member who has been diagnosed with ovarian cancer does not necessarily mean you have inherited a mutated gene. However, you should consider genetic testing if you have several family members who have been diagnosed.
Acquired Genetic Mutations
Acquired genetic mutations are caused by exposure to chemicals, toxins or radiation. Some cases of ovarian cancer are believed to be caused by acquired genetic mutations. There has been a long-standing theory that vaginal exposure to talcum powder increases the risk of ovarian cancer, but scientific studies to determine the validity of the claim are controversial.
Weight and Diet
The theory that diet may play a role in ovarian cancer is disputed. Some studies show that a diet high in vegetables and low in meat reduces the risk of developing the disease, while other studies indicate diet does not factor into the risks at all. However, diet may indirectly play a role. Obesity increases your risk. A healthy diet can help keep your weight down.
Hormones
Some hormonal factors reduce the risk of ovarian cancer while others seem to increase the risk. Having children, breastfeeding and taking birth control pills reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Hormone replacement therapy, starting menstruation at an early age and reaching menopause at a late age, increase the risk. If you discontinue hormone replacement therapy, your risk deceases. There is some evidence that fertility drugs may also increase the risk of ovarian cancer, but more studies need to be conducted.
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