Search site Search YourHealthSimplified
Search
Search
cancer > Cancer Topics

Ovarian Cancer

Causes

The causes of ovarian cancer are not known. Many factors have been associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer but the only factor which is clearly shown to increase risk is a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. In most of these families, the elevated risk is due to an inherited genetic predisposition to the disease. Such genetic profiles are more common in some specific ethnic groups (Ashkenazi Jews being one of the groups at highest risk for this genetic predisposition).

Other factors such as having few or no pregnancies, and early onset of menstruation or late menopause are not well proven.

Fertility treatments that include stimulation of ovulation may also increase the risk of ovarian cancer but, again, this is not well proven and is certainly difficult to assess for any individual woman.


Email Bookmark Feedback Add to del.icio.us Print
Support Groups

© 1996 - 2008 MediResource Inc. The contents of this health site are for informational purposes only. Always seek the advice of your physician or other qualified healthcare provider regarding any questions you may have about a medical condition.