While there’s no guaranteed method to prevent ovarian cancer, there are steps you can take to lower your risk of developing it. Here are some strategies that may help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer:
Ovarian cancer typically presents without early symptoms and tends to spread rapidly compared to other cancers. It originates in a woman’s ovaries, which are part of the reproductive system located on either side of the uterus in the pelvis.
There are three primary types of ovarian tumors: epithelial tumors, germ cell tumors, and stromal tumors. The precise cause of ovarian cancer remains unknown. Normally, cells in the body grow and divide in an organized manner to generate new cells as needed. However, when cells fail to divide and grow orderly, tumors can form.
Strategies for Reducing the Likelihood of Ovarian Cancer
While it’s not possible to completely prevent ovarian cancer, there are several methods that can effectively decrease the likelihood of developing this disease. Here are some strategies to help minimize your risk:
Maintain a Healthy Weight
Obesity or being overweight increases the risk of ovarian cancer, particularly if one was obese in early adulthood. Shedding excess weight not only helps in maintaining overall health but also lowers the risk of various diseases, including cancer.
Follow a Low-fat Diet
Adopting a healthy diet low in fat can contribute to weight management and reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Research published in the Journal of the National Cancer Institute suggests that a low-fat diet can be beneficial in lowering the risk of ovarian cancer.
Breastfeeding
Breastfeeding for an extended period, as indicated by a study conducted at Curtin University, has been associated with a 63 percent lower risk of ovarian tumor development compared to shorter breastfeeding durations. Breastfeeding can potentially reduce the risk of both breast and ovarian cancers by delaying ovulation.
These lifestyle choices offer proactive steps to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer and contribute to overall health and well-being.
Ovarian Removal
If you have a significant family history of ovarian cancer or carry a genetic mutation associated with it, you could be at heightened risk of developing the disease. In such cases, opting for the surgical removal of your ovaries and fallopian tubes might be advisable. It’s crucial to seek advice from a healthcare professional if you believe you’re at risk or are considering undergoing this procedure.
Exercise
A Canadian study published in The International Journal of Cancer suggests that engaging in moderate exercise may lower the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Surprisingly, the research indicates that neither vigorous exercise nor sedentary lifestyles significantly impact ovarian cancer risk. This finding adds to existing evidence indicating that regular physical activity may provide protective benefits against various cancers, including breast cancer, as demonstrated in previous studies.