Are You At Risk for Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the deadliest
type of gynecologic cancer.
That’s probably because it
typically is not diagnosed until it has
reached an advanced stage. But you
can help protect yourself by knowing
if you are at risk and what symptoms
to watch for.
Risk Factors
The exact causes of ovarian cancer are unknown. But the following factors may play a role:- Age: Being older than age 50 increases the odds of developing ovarian cancer. Risk is highest after age 60.
- Family history: A woman may be at risk if she has a first-degree relative, that is, a daughter, sister, or mother, who has had ovarian cancer. Her risk is particularly high if two or more first-degree relatives have had this cancer. A history of the disease in other family members such as aunts, cousins, or grandmothers is also linked to a higher-than-average risk.
- A family history of breast or colon cancer also has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
- Women who have a strong family history of breast cancer sometimes opt to get checked for the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, which are linked to a high risk of breast cancer. Being a carrier of either one of these genes also is associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
- Personal history: Women who have had colon or breast cancer may face a higher risk.
- Pregnancy: Women who have never given birth have a higher risk than women who have.
Warning Signs
If detected early, ovarian cancer is treatable. But symptoms often are vague and may not show up until later stages of the cancer. These easy-tooverlook warning signs may include:- Stomach discomfort, such as indigestion, nausea, swelling, or cramps
- Diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination
- Decreased appetite
- Feeling full after even a light meal
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Pain during intercourse
- Fatigue
- Backache
