Ovarian Cancer
What should people know about ovarian cancer?
The ovaries are female reproductive glands, located in the abdomen near the uterus. The ovaries produce eggs needed for human reproduction. They also produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Each year in New York State, almost 1,400 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and almost 850 women die of the disease.
Who gets ovarian cancer?
All women can get ovarian cancer. However, ovarian cancer is more common among older women. Most women who get ovarian cancer are over the age of 55. Non-Hispanic White women are more likely to get ovarian cancer than other women.
What factors increase risk for developing ovarian cancer?
At this time, the causes of ovarian cancer are not well understood. However, scientists agree that certain factors increase a woman's risk of developing this disease. These risk factors include:
- Family history. Women with a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) who has had ovarian, breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer are at increased risk for ovarian cancer.
- Genetics. Women with certain genetic changes (BRCA1, BRCA2 and hereditary nonpolyposis colon cancer) are at higher risk for getting ovarian cancer. Up to 10% of ovarian cancers may be due to genetic factors.
- Personal history. Women with a personal history of cancer of the breast, uterus, colon or rectum have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
- Reproductive history. Women who have never been pregnant have an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
What can I do to reduce my chances of getting ovarian cancer?
To help reduce the risk of getting ovarian cancer:
- Be aware of your family history and discuss any concerns with your health care provider.
- Be aware of the symptoms of ovarian cancer and talk to your health care provider if these occur. Ovarian cancer may be easier to treat if found early.
- If you are at higher risk, speak with your health care provider about other actions you can take to reduce the risk of getting ovarian cancer.
How else can I reduce my risk for cancer?
The following may help reduce the risk of developing cancer:
- Do not smoke. If you currently smoke, quit. Avoid exposure to secondhand smoke. For more information on quitting smoking, visit the NYS Smoker's Quitline at www.nysmokefree.com or call 1-866-NY-QUITS.
- Choose a healthy diet to achieve and maintain a healthy weight. Eat more vegetables, fruits and whole grains and eat less red and processed (e.g., bacon, sausage, luncheon meat, hot dogs) meats. These actions may reduce the risk of developing many types of cancer as well as other diseases.
- Exercise regularly.
- Discuss the risks and benefits of medical imaging, such as CT scans, with your health care provider to avoid unnecessary exposure to ionizing radiation. This is particularly important for children.
- Talk with your health care provider about recommended cancer screenings.
