Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer
Risk increases with age, especially following menopause. The peak age incidence is approximately age 60. Most women go through menopause around age 52. A family history of any of the following cancers is a very important risk factor:
- epithelial ovarian cancer
- fallopian tube cancer
- peritoneal cancer
- premenopausal breast cancer
- male breast cancer
A personal history of premenopausal breast cancer is another important risk factor. Some families affected by both colon and endometrial cancer will have an increased risk. Infertility and not bearing children are also risk factors.
If you have a family history of breast, ovarian, or colon cancer, talk with your doctor about genetic screening.
