What Causes Ovarian Cancer? Key Factors You Should Know!

Introduction

Ovarian cancer is one of the most concerning health issues affecting women worldwide. According to global cancer statistics, it is the eighth ¹ most common cancer among women and the leading cause of gynaecological cancer deaths. Ovarian cancer is referred to as a “silent killer” because symptoms can go unnoticed until the disease is in its advanced stages. Understanding what causes ovarian cancer is crucial in raising awareness and taking preventive measures.

What Causes Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer doesn’t have a single identifiable cause, but several factors can contribute to its development. These factors can be genetic, hormonal, environmental, lifestyle, and age-related influences.

Genetic Factors

Genetic mutations are one of the major leading causes of ovarian cancer. Women who inherit mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are at increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. These genes are responsible for repairing the damaged DNA, and when they don’t function correctly, it may result in uncontrolled cell growth, which is the basis of cancer. BRCA mutations are also linked to breast cancer, making regular screening important for women with a family history of either condition.

Another genetic condition associated with ovarian cancer is Lynch syndrome, which increases the risk of several cancers, including ovarian cancer. Women with a family history of breast, ovarian, or colon cancer should consider genetic testing, especially if cases have occurred at younger ages. Multigene panel testing using NGS can help unaffected individuals with a family history to understand their risk and take early preventive steps.

Hormonal Factors

Hormonal fluctuations over a woman’s lifetime can also influence ovarian cancer causes. Women who have never been pregnant or who had their first child after the age of 35 ² are at a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer. This is thought to be related to the number of ovulations that occur over a lifetime. More ovulations mean more chances for the cells in the ovaries to mutate.

Environmental and Lifestyle Factors

While genetic and hormonal factors play significant roles, environmental and lifestyle choices can also contribute to what causes ovarian cancer. A few noteworthy factors include:

Obesity: Women with body mass index (BMI) above 30 ⁴ are at increased risk.
Smoking: Certain studies suggest that smoking raises the risk of mucinous ovarian cancer, though smoking is not a direct cause of ovarian cancer.
Diet: A high-fat diet, rich in animal fats, has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Women who eat a healthy diet high in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may reduce their risk.

Age Factor

Age is one of the most well-established causes of ovarian cancer. The risk rises as women get older, with the majority of cases detected in women over 50, particularly following menopause. This could be due to cumulative damage to ovarian cells over time. Post-menopausal women are at a much higher risk, and routine screening is especially important for those with a family history of cancer.

What Causes Ovarian Cancer at a Young Age?

Though ovarian cancer is more common in older women, it can also affect younger women. The primary reason for what causes ovarian cancer at a young age often points back to genetic factors. Women with a family history of cancer are at risk, even at a younger age. Hormonal factors may also play a role, especially in cases of early-onset menstruation or fertility treatments.

Myths vs. Facts About Ovarian Cancer Causes

There are several misconceptions about ovarian cancer causes that can cause confusion. Let’s clear up some of the most common myths:

Myth: Using birth control pills increases your risk of ovarian cancer.
Fact: Long-term use of birth control pills can actually lower your risk. The reduced number of ovulations over time appears to offer protective benefits.
Myth: Only women with a family history of ovarian cancer are at risk.
Fact: While a family history increases the risk, the majority of ovarian cancers happen in women with no known family history of the disease.
Myth: Ovarian cancer always causes noticeable symptoms early on.
Fact: Ovarian cancer is often referred to as a “silent killer” because early-stage symptoms can be vague and easily misunderstood for other conditions, such as bloating, indigestion, or back pain.

Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?

While ovarian cancer cannot be completely prevented, several precautions can be taken to reduce the risk. Genetic counselling, genetic testing, and early diagnosis play an important role in managing risk for women who are genetically predisposed to the disease.

Regular Screening: Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer should consider regular screenings and genetic testing. Screening tests like transvaginal ultrasounds and blood tests (CA-125) can help in early detection.
Oral Contraceptives: As mentioned earlier, long-term use of birth control pills can lower the risk. If you’re already on birth control or considering it, this added benefit may be worth discussing with your doctor.
Surgical Prevention: For women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations, risk-reducing surgery such as removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes may be an option. However, this decision should be made after consulting the risks and benefits with a specialist.
Healthy Lifestyle Choices: Maintaining a healthy diet, avoiding smoking, and exercising regularly are steps every woman can take to improve overall health, which may also lower the risk of cancer.

Conclusion

Awareness is the first step toward prevention and early detection. Given the silent nature of ovarian cancer, which is typically found at an advanced stage, regular screening and early detection are essential for managing the disease.

MedGenome offers a comprehensive genetic testing portfolio to understand the risk of developing cancer-based on inherited genetic mutations in cancer predisposition genes. Understanding your genetic makeup allows you to take steps toward early intervention and prevention. If you have a family history of cancer or are concerned about your risk, consider speaking to your doctor or genetic counsellor about genetic testing options through MedGenome.