Risk factors are different for different cancers. Women need to pay attention to these in particular:
Age- The risk is higher with age. Ovarian cancer is rare in women under 40, usually occurring after menopause.
Obesity- A body mass index (BMI) over 30 has been linked to a higher risk in developing ovarian cancer.
Children- The risk goes down with each child you give birth to. Using birth control pills for more than 5 years has shown to reduce your risk.
Family History- Your risk goes up if your mother, sister, or daughter has had ovarian cancer. It doesn’t just apply to your mother’s side of the family either- your paternal side counts as well.
Personal History- If you have had breast cancer, your may have an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
