A Word About Causes and Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer:
Unfortunately, we do not know exactly what causes ovarian cancer. However, research has identified ovarian cancer risk factors. Risk factors increase you chance of developing a disease.
Age:
Statistics and research tell us that ovarian cancer develops most often in women over 60 (at least 50% of cases). It is also more common in post-menopausal women. Keep in mind that, although rare, ovarian cancer can strike in young women, too.
Race:
Ovarian cancer develops more often in Caucasian women than in African American women.
Past Perosnal History of Breast Cancer:
Women who have been diagnosed with breast cancer in the past have an increased risk factor for developing ovarian cancer. This may be due to a mutated BRCA gene.
Family History:
A family history of colorectal, breast, or ovarian cancer increases your risk factor for developing ovarian cancer. Again, this may be due to the inherited genes BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Use of Hormone Replacement Therapy:
Post menopausal who use hormone replace therapy (HRTs) area at slight higher risk factor for developing ovarian cancer.
Not Having Children :
Women who have never had children, or children over the age of 30 seem to have an increased risk factor. It is believed that the amount of menstrual cycles a woman has in her lifetime can impact her chances of developing ovarian cancer.
Using Fertility Drugs:
Women who have used fertility drugs have 3 times more of a increased risk factor than women who have not used them. There is a greater risk in women who used fertility drugs and did not conceive.
Jewish Heritage :
Ashkenazi Jewish heritage increases the risk factor for ovarian cancer.
Source:
Created - 02/01/06
Source: American Cancer Society
Seattle Cancer Center Alliance
Johns Hopkins University
Source: American Cancer Society
Seattle Cancer Center Alliance
Johns Hopkins University
