Ovarian, and primary peritoneal cancer risk management
Ovarian, , and primary peritoneal cancers are all related and often grouped together as "ovarian cancer" because the risk factors and medical options are similar for all three. Every woman is at risk for these cancers and the risk increases with age. A woman in the general population has less than a 2 percent lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. This means that 1 out of every 50 women will get ovarian cancer in her lifetime.
Ovarian cancer screening and risk reduction
The approaches used to manage ovarian cancer risk include:
Which option you choose for managing your ovarian cancer cancer risk will depend on several factors, including:
- your age
- the presence of an inherited gene mutation
- your personal and family history of cancer
- other risk factors
- personal preferences
There are different national expert guidelines for ovarian cancer risk management, which are based on your level of risk. Speak with your healthcare provider to decide on a risk management plan and schedule that is right for you.
Factors that affect , ovarian and primary peritoneal cancer risk
, ovarian and primary peritoneal cancers are related and often grouped together as "ovarian cancer" because the risk factors and medical options are similar for all three. Every woman is at risk for these cancers and the risk increases with age. A woman in the general population has less than a 2 percent lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer. This means that 1 out of every 50 women will get ovarian cancer in her lifetime.
Genes linked to , ovarian and primary peritoneal cancer risk
Inherited mutations in the following genes have been linked to an increased risk for ovarian cancer, (click on the gene to learn more about the ovarian cancer risk associated for each):
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More research is needed to confirm a link between ovarian cancer and an inherited mutation in these genes:
Other factors linked to , ovarian and primary peritoneal cancer risk
Research on how other factors affect the risk for , ovarian and primary peritoneal cancer has been mixed. The following are some factors that have been studied:
- aspirin (in women with increased body mass index)
- breastfeeding (including in women with mutations)
- oral contraceptives
More research is needed to understand whether other factors may influence risk in people with inherited mutations.
Find Experts
- The Foundation for Women's Cancer has a search tool to help you find a gynecologic oncologist. .
- The National Cancer Institute (NCI)-designated comprehensive cancer centers deliver cutting-edge cancer care to patients in communities across the United States. Most centers have specialized screening and prevention centers for high risk people. Find a center near you and learn about its specific research capabilities, programs, and initiatives.
- Register for the FORCE Message Boards to get referrals from other members. Once you register, you can post on the Find a Specialist board to connect with other people who share your situation.