What causes ovarian cancer?

The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not known. However, studies show that the following factors may increase the chance of developing this disease:

• Age. Most ovarian cancers develop in women over age 50, with the highest risk in women over age 60.
• Family history. First-degree relatives (mother, daughters, and sisters) of a woman with ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing the disease. The risk is especially high if two or more first-degree relatives have had it. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also associated with an increased risk for ovarian cancer.
• Personal history. Women who have had breast or colon cancer may have a greater chance of developing ovarian cancer than women who have not had these diseases.
• Childbearing. Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. The more children a woman has had, the less likely she is to develop the disease.
• Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Some studies suggest that women who use HRT after menopause may have a slightly increase risk of ovarian cancer.
• Fertility drugs. Researchers are studying a possible link between fertility drugs (drugs that cause a woman to ovulate) and an increased risk for ovarian cancer.
• Talc. Some studies suggest that women who have used talc in the genital area for many years may be at a higher risk for ovarian cancer.

Scientists are studying ways to find ovarian cancer early, when the chances of recovery are best. For more information about this research, call the Cancer Information Service at 1-800-4-CANCER.

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