Ovarian Cancer

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

There are two primary risk factors for ovarian cancer:

• Age: Ovarian cancer is more common in women over the age of 50.
• Family history: You are at higher risk of ovarian cancer if a close female relative has been diagnosed with it. This could be your mother, sister, daughter, or grandmother.

What is family history?

When several family members have had ovarian cancer, we say the disease “runs in a family.” There is a pattern. The pattern can mean an inherited mutation is causing ovarian cancer. Inherited mutations are also called genetic mutations. That means there are changes that happen in genes and are passed down from parents to children.

Mutations in the following genes are linked to ovarian cancer:

• BRCA
• RAD51C
• RAD51D
• BRIP1

Genetic Counseling for Ovarian Cancer

When you come to Siteman, we will offer you genetic testing and counseling to see if these mutations could be driving your cancer. Our genetic counseling team includes doctors, oncology nurse specialists, psychologists, and board-certified genetic counselors.

Identifying a genetic mutation can lead to improved treatment for you and can alert other family members who could be at risk.

Getting a genetic test is simple. All it takes is a blood draw at a laboratory. But it can be hard to decide whether or not to get the test in the first place.

At Siteman, we recommend that patients meet with a trained genetic counselor both before and after the test. The counselor’s job is to give you the tools to decide if testing is the right option for you. If you choose to get tested, the counselor will also help you prepare for whatever results you might receive. 

Ovarian cancer prevention and monitoring

Women with cancer-causing genetic mutations have a number of options. They might decide to have their ovaries taken out to prevent cancer from occurring. Or, they might decide to keep their ovaries but make a plan with their doctors to monitor for signs of cancer. Your genetic counselor and physicians will discuss these options with you and are always ready to offer guidance. 

What’s my risk of getting ovarian cancer?

The best way to evaluate your risk of ovarian cancer is to have a conversation with your ob-gyn. However, there are also online tools you can use to quickly assess your risk and start a conversation with your physician later on.

Your Disease Risk is an effective tool that was developed by physicians and scientists right here at Siteman. It can provide you with an estimation of your risk, as well as targeted suggestions to help you manage it.