Ovarian Cancer: The Risk Factors You Need to Be Aware of

Any cancerous growth that is found in the ovary is ovarian cancer. Makes sense, right? Most cases arise from the outer lining or the epithelium of the ovary. You must be fully aware that there are different risk factors for different types of cancer. For instance, the most common risk factor associated with skin cancer is excessive exposure to the sunlight.

Various types of cancer are triggered by smoking. However, you must understand that risk factors do not give us conclusive information. Having one or many of the risk factors does not necessarily mean you will get the disease.

Ironically many individuals may get the disease but not have any of the common or known risk factors. Here are a few common risk factors that are known to lead to ovarian cancer.

Age

There is an increased possibility of getting ovarian cancer with age. It is quite uncommon for a woman under the age of 40 to get this disease.

Ovarian cancer is also very common in women post-menopause, woman are mostly 55-64. Even though it is not at all common to acquire it before menopause, it can happen. Every year about around 22,000 women are afflicted with this horrible disease.

Hence, it is mandatory for all ladies, to know the symptoms associated with ovarian cancer. Remember it is even more important to watch out for symptoms if you have a family history. When you experience any symptoms and are in doubt it is best to get checked by a doctor.

Obesity

After several studies and a considerable amount of research, it has been established that women who have obesity or weight issues have greater chances of getting ovarian cancer. So, eating right and having a fitness regimen can't hurt. 

Reproductive History

Ovarian cancer is quite more common in women who have gone through their first full-term pregnancy after age 30. Women who did not become pregnant or did not complete a full-term pregnancy also have a greater risk.

Younger women who have experienced a full-term pregnancy before 26 years old are regarded as low risk. Breastfeeding could be instrumental in lowering the risk associated with ovarian cancer too because it causes you to ovulate less.

Use of Fertility Drugs

Prolonged use (over one year or so) of the fertility drug called Clomid can boost ovarian cancer risks, as per several studies conducted by researchers. The risk was highest in individuals who still didn't conceive while on the fertility drug therapy.

Ovarian cancer often runs in families. There are greater chances of you acquiring the disease if your sister, mother, or even daughter is suffering from it. The more relatives that have ovarian cancer means an increased risk for you. Here are several other risk factors triggering ovarian cancer. Learn as much as you can and change your lifestyle if necessary. Better safe, than sorry.

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