Ovarian cancer is a serious health condition that originates in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs. This form of cancer arises when mutations occur in the genes that regulate cell growth, leading to uncontrolled proliferation of cells and the formation of tumors. If not detected and treated early, ovarian cancer can metastasize to other parts of the body, affecting surrounding reproductive organs and beyond.

According to the American Cancer Society (ACS), the risk of an average woman developing ovarian cancer in her lifetime is below 2%. The precise origins of these malignant mutations remain unclear; however, several factors can influence your risk of developing ovarian cancer, including:

• Genetic predispositions
• Individual medical history
• Reproductive background
• Age
• Ethnic background
• Dietary habits
• Body mass index (BMI)

It’s important to note that even if you have one or multiple risk factors, it doesn’t guarantee the development of the disease. Conversely, women with no known risk factors can still be diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is categorized into various subtypes, primarily based on the cells from which they develop:

• Epithelial tumors: These tumors originate in the tissue covering the ovaries and account for approximately 90% of all ovarian cancer cases.
• Stromal tumors: Arising from hormone-producing cells within the ovaries, these tumors represent about 7% of ovarian cancers.
• Germ cell tumors: Typically diagnosed in younger women, this rare form begins in the egg-producing cells of the ovaries.

A familial history of cancer can significantly elevate your risk of developing ovarian cancer. This includes:

• Ovarian cancer
• Breast cancer
• Uterine cancer
• Colorectal cancer

If immediate family members have experienced any of these cancers, you may possess a mutation in genes such as BRCA1 or BRCA2, increasing your risk. Around 5 to 10% of ovarian cancers are attributed to inherited genetic mutations, particularly BRCA mutations, which are also associated with other cancer types, including:

• Breast cancer
• Primary peritoneal cancer
• Fallopian tube cancer
• Pancreatic cancer
• Prostate cancer

The lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is estimated to be 35% to 70% for individuals with a BRCA1 mutation and 10% to 30% for those with a BRCA2 mutation. Several other genetic mutations linked to higher risks include:

• PTEN
• MLH1, MLH3
• MSH2, MSH6
• TGFBR2
• PMS1, PMS2
• STK11
• MUTYH

If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, consider discussing genetic testing options with your healthcare provider.

Your personal health history also influences your risk profile. A history of breast cancer may elevate your risk of ovarian cancer, especially if there’s an accompanying family history. This could indicate a hereditary syndrome linked to mutations like BRCA.

Other health conditions related to increased ovarian cancer risk include:

• Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS)
• Endometriosis
• Hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNCC)
• PTEN tumor hamartoma syndrome
• Peutz-Jeghers syndrome
• MUTYH-associated polyposis

It’s essential to disclose any of these diagnoses to your doctor for a comprehensive risk assessment.

Research conducted by the National Cancer Institute (NCI) suggests that the use of birth control pills may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, with longer usage potentially providing more significant protection. Interestingly, this protective effect can persist for up to 30 years post-usage. Other reproductive choices that may lower risk include tubal ligation and breastfeeding.

Conversely, the use of fertility drugs has been associated with a slight elevation in the risk of developing tumors that have low malignant potential. Factors that may heighten your risk of ovarian cancer include:

• Starting menstruation before age 12
• Giving birth for the first time after age 30
• Not having had any children
• Experiencing menopause after age 50
• Utilizing hormone replacement therapy for menopause

Ovarian cancer risk significantly rises with age, particularly after menopause, with half of all diagnoses occurring in women over 63 years old. Diagnosis is considerably rare in women under 40. According to the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention, non-Hispanic white women are at the highest risk, followed by Hispanic women, then black women, Asian and Pacific Islander women, and finally, American Indian and Alaskan Native women.

The association between dietary habits and ovarian cancer remains complex, but a higher body mass index (BMI), particularly above 30, is known to increase risk. Furthermore, obesity during adolescence has also been linked to higher susceptibility. Women who are taller, specifically those measuring 5 feet 8 inches or more, may face a slightly increased risk as well.

While certain risk factors like genetics and age are not modifiable, lifestyle choices can play an important role in potentially lowering your risk. Consider the following recommendations:

• Consult with your physician about the advantages and disadvantages of using birth control pills.
• Adopt a balanced and nutritious diet.
• Engage in regular physical activity.
• Work towards maintaining a healthy weight.

Discuss your medical history and lifestyle habits with your healthcare provider to develop an individualized risk assessment and management plan, enhancing your chances for a long and healthy life.