Causes of ovarian cancer

The causes of ovarian cancer include genetics, environmental factors, physiological factors, pathological changes, etc. Understanding its causes can help prevent and detect it early, thereby reducing the risk of disease.

1Genetic factors: influence of family history and gene mutation

Heredity is one of the important risk factors for ovarian cancer. If there is a family member with ovarian cancer or breast cancer, especially if the mother or sister is ill, the individual's chance of developing ovarian cancer increases significantly. This is related to BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations, which can cause abnormal proliferation of ovarian cells and possible malignant transformation. If there is a history of gene mutations in the family, early screening can be done through genetic testing, and preventive measures can be taken under the doctor's advice, such as close monitoring or preventive surgery.

2 Environmental factors: lifestyle and external exposure

Environmental factors include an unreasonable diet and exposure to pollution sources. Excessive intake of high-fat and high-sugar foods and lack of fresh fruits and vegetables may increase the risk of cancer; long-term exposure to harmful substances such as asbestos dust and chemicals may also increase the risk of ovarian cell cancer. Maintaining a healthy diet, eating more fruits and vegetables rich in antioxidants such as blueberries and broccoli, and reducing exposure to pollution, such as avoiding long-term work in a heavily polluted environment, can help reduce the risk of disease.

3 Physiological factors: menstrual cycle and fertility

The occurrence of ovarian cancer may also be closely related to the number of lifetime ovulations. Women who have not given birth, those who have their first menstruation before the age of 12 or menopause after the age of 55, and those who use ovulation-stimulating drugs for a long time have a relatively high risk of cancer. This may be because more ovulations increase the chance of damage and mutation of ovarian epithelial cells. Considering the use of contraceptives to moderately suppress ovulation and reducing the number of ovulations through pregnancy and childbirth is also a preventive strategy, but it requires a doctor's permission.

4 Pathological changes: chronic ovarian diseases and other cancers

Chronic ovarian diseases such as long-term ovarian cysts and polycystic ovary syndrome may increase the risk of malignant transformation. Breast cancer patients are also at higher risk of ovarian cancer. This is because these pathologies may lead to the accumulation of inflammation or gene mutations. For women with relevant medical histories, color Doppler ultrasound examinations or tumor marker tests such as CA125 and HE4 should be performed regularly to detect lesions at an early stage.

Although the causes of ovarian cancer are diverse, the risk can be effectively reduced through scientific intervention and early prevention. It is recommended to establish a healthy lifestyle and have regular physical examinations to rule out ovarian abnormalities. In particular, high-risk groups should maintain close communication with doctors and seek professional advice.