The Causes & Risk Factors Of Ovarian Cancer

The causes of ovarian cancer are varied, and often involve a combination of genetic, hormonal, and environmental factors. Each factor plays a role in the development and progression of the disease. Factors such as age, and certain family medical histories can increase your risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Take a look at the information below to understand

Genetic risk factors

When it comes to ovarian cancer, some of the strongest risk factors are related to your genes. If you have a family history of ovarian cancer, it's important to be aware of the genetic factors that may play a role.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene faults (AKA: BRCA gene mutations)

Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are among the most well-known causes of ovarian cancer. These gene mutations significantly increase your risk and can be inherited from either parent. You can learn more about BRCA gene mutations here.

Family medical history

If close family members, such as your mother, sister, or daughter, have had ovarian or breast cancer, you may be at a higher risk. Genetic testing can help assess your likelihood of carrying a genetic mutation linked to cancer.

You can use our hereditary cancer risk calculator to help understand if you would be eligible for genetic testing.

Inherited genetic conditions

Certain inherited conditions are also linked to ovarian cancer risk.

Lynch Syndrome

Women with Lynch syndrome, a condition that increases the risk of several cancers, including ovarian cancer, should be closely monitored. Learn more about Lynch syndrome here.

Rare genetic alterations

Yes, there are a handful of other genes which have been connected to ovarian cancer. Some of these genes are at moderate risk, and none are thought to increase ovarian cancer risk as much as BRCA1. Pathogenic variants (also known as mutations) in these genes are found less often than those in BRCA1 and BRCA2. These genes are: 

• RAD51C 
• RAD51D 
• BRIP1 
• PALB2 

There are also some other genes that are linked to specific types of ovarian cancer seen in very rare cancer syndromes. These genes are:

• STK11 (Peutz-Jeghers syndrome) which is linked to sex cord (SCTAT) tumours
• DICER1 which is linked to Sertoli-Leydig cell tumours

Age

The risk of ovarian cancer increases as you get older. Ovarian cancer has a strong association with age. Currently around 84% of cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, and more than half of all cases in women over 65. It is however important to remember that a women can get ovarian cancer at any age so women of all ages should be symptom aware.

Ethnicity

Some ethnic groups, particularly those of Ashkenazi Jewish descent, have a higher prevalence of BRCA gene mutations, putting them at a greater risk for ovarian cancer. However, women from all backgrounds can be affected.

You can find more information on risks around Jewish heritage here.

Lifestyle risk factors

Your lifestyle can also influence your risk of developing ovarian cancer, alongside other health conditions.

Smoking

Smoking has been linked to a higher risk of certain types of ovarian cancer, especially mucinous ovarian cancer.

Alcohol

While the link between alcohol and ovarian cancer is less clear, excessive alcohol consumption can increase the risk of other cancers and overall health complications.

Diet

A diet high in fats and low in fruits and vegetables may contribute to a slightly increased risk. Eating a balanced, nutrient-rich diet is essential for lowering cancer risk.

Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT)

Research shows that using oestrogen-only or combined HRT increases a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer. It is thought that only 1% of ovarian cancer cases are linked to HRT use, and women should discuss all risks and benefits with their consultant when making decisions about its use.

Menstrual Cycle

Ovarian cancer is linked to increased ovulations, therefore a long menstrual history can increase risk of getting the disease. Things that contribute to a long menstrual history include: starting periods earlier, reaching the menopause at a later age and never giving birth.

Early onset menopause

Women who experience menopause before the age of 45 may have a lower risk of ovarian cancer, although the reasons behind this are still being studied.

Late onset menopause

Women who experience menopause later in life have a longer exposure to estrogen, which can increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

Medical History

Other factors in your medical history may be linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis is a common condition where tissue that behaves like the lining of the womb (endometrium) is found in other parts of the body. It can appear in many different places, including the ovaries, fallopian tubes, inside the tummy, and in or around the bladder or bowel. Research shows that women who have endometriosis are at increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Polycystic ovaries (PCOS)

While polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) does not directly cause ovarian cancer, women with this condition may have a higher risk due to hormonal imbalances.

Previous cancer diagnosis

If you’ve had breast, colon, or uterine cancer, your risk of ovarian cancer may be higher. A history of cancer often signals a need for increased monitoring.

You can use our risk calculator to understand whether your history or your family's history of cancer determines your eligibility for genetic testing.

How can I reduce my risk?

While some factors are beyond your control, there are ways to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Oral contraception: Recent research shows that using the combined oral contraceptive pill can reduce a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer for up to 30 years. A woman should always discuss their contraceptive options with their GP and weigh up the risks and benefits.

Giving birth and breast feeding: Both of these things help to reduce the number of ovulations a woman has during her menstrual cycle and can therefore help reduce risk of ovarian cancer.

Maintain a healthy lifestyle: trying to maintain a healthy body weight through a balanced diet and regular exercise, along with not smoking can help reduce a woman’s risk of ovarian cancer.

Hysterectomy: In some cases, women at high risk of ovarian cancer may consider having their ovaries and fallopian tubes removed to significantly reduce their chances of developing the disease.

Regular screening and awareness: While there is no routine national screening for ovarian cancer, regular check-ups and awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms can lead to earlier diagnosis, which means more treatment options and improved outcomes.

Take a look at the ovarian cancer symptoms. If you're experiencing bloating, peeing more, stomach pain, feeling full quickly or anything that is our of the ordinary for you and your body - please talk to your GP as soon as possible.

FAQs

What causes ovarian cancer at a young age?

Ovarian cancer at a young age is rare, but certain genetic factors like BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome can increase the likelihood of developing the disease early. Whilst most common in women over the age of 50, women of any age can be diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Can an abbortion increase the risk of ovarian cancer?

No, there is no evidence to suggest that having an abortion increases the risk of ovarian cancer.

Does removing rour fallopian tube reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?

Yes, removing the fallopian tubes can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, especially for women at high genetic risk.

You can take a look at the different types of hysterectomy here.

Are there any foods that cause ovarian cancer?

No specific foods cause ovarian cancer, but a diet high in processed foods and low in fruits and vegetables may increase your risk.