Ovarian cancer arises when abnormal cells in and around the ovaries begin to grow uncontrollably. These cells multiply rapidly and can invade healthy tissues, forming tumors. While the exact cause of ovarian cancer remains unclear, several factors—including genetic, environmental, lifestyle, and hormonal—can increase your risk.
Theories Behind Development
Ovarian cancer typically begins in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or nearby tissues when cells undergo DNA mutations. These mutations may cause cells to grow out of control and form tumors. The cancer can eventually spread through the abdomen, pelvis, lymph nodes, or even more distant areas.
hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Used to treat menopause symptoms like hot flashes, HRT has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. The risk appears higher in people currently undergoing hormone therapy and tends to decrease once HRT is stopped.
late-onset menopause
Menopause after age 55 is associated with a greater risk of ovarian cancer. This may be due to longer exposure to estrogen. More ovulatory cycles may increase cancer risk, as ovulation involves inflammation, a known cancer risk factor.
endometriosis
People with endometriosis—a condition where uterine-like tissue grows outside the uterus—are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. Factors like high estrogen, genetic mutations, and chronic inflammation may contribute.
reproductive history
Those who have never given birth face a higher risk. Pregnancy before age 26, having multiple pregnancies, and breastfeeding seem to reduce risk, possibly due to breaks in ovulation and hormone shifts.
weight
A body mass index (BMI) of 30 or above is associated with slightly increased risk. This may be due to higher estrogen production from fat tissue and chronic inflammation from obesity.
Is Ovarian Cancer Hereditary?
Approximately 25% of ovarian cancer cases are linked to inherited gene mutations. Having a close relative (mother, sister, daughter) with a history of ovarian or breast cancer increases your risk.
brca gene mutations
BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations are the most well-known genetic links to ovarian and breast cancer. Roughly 10% of ovarian cancer cases are associated with these genes. The risk rises with age, although not everyone with these mutations develops cancer.
lynch syndrome
Also known as hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC), this condition increases the risk of several cancers, including ovarian. Mutations in genes like MLH1, MSH2, MSH6, PMS2, and EPCAM are involved. Around 1 in 300 people may carry a Lynch-related mutation.
If you have a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, talk to a healthcare provider about genetic testing to evaluate your inherited risk.
Who Is at Risk?
Some groups of people are more likely to develop ovarian cancer due to age, ethnicity, or biological sex.
age
Ovarian cancer is most common after menopause. Half of all cases are diagnosed in individuals aged 63 and older.
ethnicity
White women have a higher prevalence of ovarian cancer than Hispanic, Black, or Asian women. Among Ashkenazi Jews, roughly 1 in 40 people carry BRCA mutations.
sex
About 1 in 78 individuals with ovaries will develop ovarian cancer during their lifetime.
Additional Risk Factors
Beyond genetics and hormonal influences, other lifestyle and environmental factors can also affect risk.
body weight
Being overweight or obese raises the risk. Estrogen from fat tissue and systemic inflammation may be contributing factors.
infertility and fertility treatments
People with infertility, particularly those who’ve used fertility medications like Clomid or undergone IVF, may face a higher risk.
diet
Diets high in red meats and dairy products have been linked to increased risk. Conversely, a low-fat diet after menopause might reduce risk.
personal or family cancer history
Having a personal or family history of ovarian, breast, or colon cancer raises the chances of developing ovarian cancer.
smoking
Smoking is a known risk factor for several subtypes of ovarian cancer.
talcum powder use
Using talcum powder in the genital area may slightly increase risk, though research is ongoing and not yet conclusive.
A Quick Review
Ovarian cancer begins when abnormal cells in or near the ovaries grow and divide rapidly, forming tumors. While the exact cause is unknown, a combination of genetic, hormonal, and lifestyle factors play a role. Understanding your personal and family medical history can help assess risk, and in some cases, preventive strategies and genetic testing may be recommended.
