| |
Possible symptoms of ovarian cancer: |
| |
Feeling of pressure in lower abdomen or pelvic area
Abdominal bloating
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
|
|
|
Risk Factors for Developing Ovarian Cancer
- Age. The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases as a woman ages. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over the age of 50, with the highest risk in women over 60.
- Family history. A woman whose mother, sister or daughter has had ovarian cancer has a higher-than-average risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Personal history. Women who have had endometrial (uterine), colon or breast cancer are at increased risk for developing ovarian cancer.
- Fertility drugs. Fertility drug use has been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer. This is still being researched.
- Hormone replacement therapy (HRT). Hormone replacement therapy may be associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer in postmenopausal women.
- Talc. Some research has shown a potential association between using talcum powder in the genital area for many years and increased risk for developing ovarian cancer.
More on Ovarian Cancer What Are Some of the Risk Factors Associated With Ovarian Cancer?
Genetic Testing for Cancer
In the Encyclopedia: Ascites
Infertility drugs
Hysterectomy
Oophorectomy
Ovarian cancer
This article was reviewed and updated June 2007.
|
|
|
