Do you know the risk factors for ovarian cancer?
While it may not be the first cancer type you think of, we should all know about ovarian cancer. Currently there is no early detection test and the symptoms can be vague, leading to late diagnosis. However, ovarian cancer is Australia’s deadliest female cancer with an average 5-year survival rate of 49%, so knowing our personal risk factors is key.
These factors are associated with higher risk:
Age
While ovarian cancer can happen at any age, it usually occurs after menopause.
Family history
It’s important to know the history of cancer among your blood relatives, especially of ovarian, breast or colon cancer.
Hereditary factors
Some inherited gene variants are associated with a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer, including BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations or genetic conditions such as Lynch Syndrome.
Previous medical diagnoses
Including breast cancer, endometriosis and diabetes.
Other factors may increase our risk, including:
Use of menopausal hormonal therapy (MHT, sometimes called HRT)
Smoking tobacco
Obesity
TerryWhite Chemmart Pharmacist,
Anna Theophilos
Surrey Hills South, VIC
What can I do?
Remember, having one or more risk factors does not mean you will develop cancer. While some factors cannot be altered, it's important to maintain an optimum lifestyle by keeping a healthy weight, not smoking and organising regular health check-ups.