Ovarian cancer will begin in the ovaries and it is often not detected until it has spread into the pelvis and abdomen. At this point it becomes difficult to treat. If it is caught early and treated in the earlier stages, the prognosis of recovery is much more likely. Some signs and symptoms that may occur include abdominal bloating or swelling, feeling full quickly at meals, weight loss or gain, discomfort in the pelvic area, changes in bowel habits, and frequent urination.

Let’s discuss the common risk factors for ovarian cancer:

1. Ovarian cancer causes and risk factors

There are many possible causes of ovarian cancer. If you have other family members who have suffered from ovarian cancer or breast cancer, you will have a higher risk of the disease. Also, as you age the possibility of ovarian cancer will increase. Hormone therapy, never getting pregnant, undergoing fertility treatment, or even delayed menopause may increase the likelihood of ovarian cancer. Those who are smokers are also at an increased risk. Caucasian women are more prone to cancer. Should you have polycystic ovarian syndrome you are also at a higher risk since your ovaries are producing more eggs for each menstrual cycle. Should you have more than one of these risk factors, talk to your doctor about ways to be preventative and lifestyle changes you can make to help lower your chances.

2. Healthy living

There is not one particular way to prevent ovarian cancer. Though it is possible to help reduce your chances. For those who smoke, quit smoking since not only does it introduce your body to other possible diseases, it is a factor in developing ovarian cancer. Eating a well balanced diet is also important. We have all heard you are what you eat, so fill your body nutritious food and antioxidants. Not only will you feel better, you lower other health risks. Should you take different hormone therapies or fertility treatments, make sure to have your doctor do exams to verify that you do not have ovarian cancer. When caught early the prognosis is much better.

3. History

Family history of breast cancer and ovarian cancer will increase your risk factors. Keeping a healthy lifestyle will lower your chances. Being proactive in your health will increase your chances of finding the disease quickly. Be aware of your body and track any changes because it may be an early sign to sickness or cause for concern. You doctor is able to feel for abnormal masses or use an ultrasound machine to find possible masses. Typically this is done at a yearly exam with a gynecologist. If you have a family history of any illness, make sure to have your yearly exams. Many women are uncomfortable with these exams, but they are important to make sure that your body is staying healthy. It will also be the doctor that typically will find the cancer in the earliest stages. Treatment becomes more in depth the further along the disease is when found. Early detection can stop it from spreading.