Causes

Main causes of ovarian cancer

The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age. Most people who get it are over 50.

Anyone with ovaries can get ovarian cancer.

You may have a higher chance of getting ovarian cancer if you:

It's still possible to get ovarian cancer even if you've had your ovaries removed. This is because ovarian cancer can also affect your fallopian tubes, or the lining inside your tummy (peritoneum).

How to lower your risk of getting ovarian cancer

You cannot always prevent ovarian cancer but there are things you can do to lower your chances of getting it.

Do

  • quit smoking

  • stay a healthy weight or lose weight if you're overweight

  • talk with a GP if ovarian cancer runs in your family – they may refer you to a specialist for genetic testing

Information:

It's important to get any symptoms of ovarian cancer checked by a GP.

Page last reviewed: 24 January 2022
Next review due: 24 January 2025