Cancer.  It’s not a word that conjures up warm, fuzzy thoughts.  Rather, it is a word that usually causes fear and anxiety.  Well, the best way to combat fear is with knowledge.  Getting educated about cancer will help you to understand the risks, the symptoms and the precautions that can be taken to minimize the chance of developing it or catch it in its early stage.

One cancer that is extremely important to catch in its early stage is ovarian cancer. 

Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in women and ranks fifth as the cause of cancer related deaths in women.  The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be about 25,500 new cases of ovarian cancer in the United States this year and that about 16,000 women will end up dying from it.

With statistics like that, knowing the risk factors for ovarian cancer becomes very advantageous.  The following are possible risk factors:

• Age: Most women develop ovarian cancer after menopause, especially after age 65.
• Reproductive History: Women who started menstruating early (before age 12), didn’t have children or had their first child after age 30, and/or experienced menopause after age 50 may have an increased risk. 
• Fertility Drugs: Some studies are finding a correlation between the fertility drug clomiphene citrate and ovarian tumors, especially if the drug was used and pregnancy never occurred.  Talk to a physician about the risks of fertility treatments.
• Family History of Ovarian Cancer: About 10 percent of ovarian cancers are a result of an inherited tendency toward the disease. Genetic screening may provide more information.
• Breast Cancer: Women who have had breast cancer have an increased risk for developing ovarian cancer as well.
• Talcum Powder: Many, but not all, studies suggest that talcum powder applied directly to the genitals or to a sanitary pad may cause cancer.  This is primarily because in the past asbestos was found in talc.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): There are various studies on HRT whereby some report a slight increase in ovarian cancer risk and others report no relation at all.  The risks and benefits of HRT are individual and should be discussed with a physician.

While there isn’t a magic procedure to follow to prevent ovarian cancer, there are ways to help reduce the risks of developing it, including:

• Oral Contraceptives: Birth control pills may reduce the risk for ovarian cancer, especially if taken for several years.
• Tubal Ligation or Hysterectomy: When done after childbearing years, having surgery to “tie” the fallopian tubes may reduce the chance of developing ovarian cancer.  Hysterectomies (removing the uterus) may also have similar effects.
• Pregnancy and Breast-feeding: Having one or more children, especially if the first is before age 30, may slightly reduce the risk for ovarian cancer.  Breast-feeding for one year or more may also slightly reduce the risk.
• Diet: A diet which is low in fat and contains lots of fruits, vegetables and whole grains seem good for overall health. 

Women with a family history of the disease have many other variables to take into consideration.  The best prevention strategies for these women include working closely with their physicians and possibly a genetic counselor to determine what is best for them individually.

For more information about ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor or contact the American Cancer Society.  Ask questions.  Find out your family’s health history.  Education is the best weapon against fear.