Ovarian is one of the leading types of cancer for women in the United States. Many factors can contribute to your risk of developing cancer, and it is not always possible to control these influences. However, knowing the risk factors and working with your doctor is the first step toward prevention. Here are a few of the primary risk factors for ovarian cancer. 

What Are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer? 

1. Genetics

As with most types, genetics play a significant role in the risk of developing ovarian cancer. If you have any family members who have had the disease or are of Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish heritage, you may be at a higher risk. The genetic mutation BRCA1 or BRCA2 is also associated with a 35% to 70% higher risk. Women who have Lynch or Peutz-Jeghers syndrome, which can be inherited genetically, are also at higher risk.

2. Age

Most women who develop ovarian cancer are diagnosed after menopause, and it is rare in women younger than the age of 40. Half of the women with this form of cancer are 63 years old or older. Using hormone replacement therapy after menopause increases your risk, so abstaining from this can help.

3. Previous Conditions

Women who have been diagnosed with breast, colorectal, or endometrial cancer are at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Women who have not had children are also more likely to get this type of cancer compared to those who have had one or more, especially if they gave birth before the age of 30. Using fertility treatments to conceive can increase your risk. However, using birth control for at least three months can reduce the risk, and this benefit continues even if you have not taken birth control in several years.

If you have any of these risk factors, talk to the compassionate cancer specialists at Alaska Oncology & Hematology, LLC. The physicians at this practice in Anchorage deliver personalized, comprehensive care in their state-of-the-art facility, providing everything from hormone therapy to chemotherapy and other cancer treatments. Call (907) 279-3155 to speak with a helpful staff member about setting up an appointment, or visit their website to learn more about the practice and how they can help you.