Ovarian Cancer Screening

Hereditary breast and ovarian cancer (HBOC) syndrome are genetic conditions that significantly elevate the risk of breast cancer and ovarian cancer. This syndrome is primarily linked to mutations in two genes: BRCA1 and BRCA2. 

One in 400 women have the BRCA mutation, making their chances of developing breast or ovarian cancer much greater. 

The risk of ovarian cancer rises for women who inherit a harmful BRCA variant. Up to 44% of women with a BRCA1 mutation and up to 17% of women with a BRCA2 mutation will develop ovarian cancer by 70 to 80 years of age. 

HBOC Syndrome Risk Factors 
Some risk factors in a medical record or family history may indicate a genetic tendency to develop breast or ovarian cancer, including: 

 

• A diagnosis of breast cancer at age 50 or younger 
• Bilateral breast cancers, either in you, a family member or a close relative 
• A close blood relation (mother, daughter, sister, grandmother, granddaughter, niece) diagnosed with ovarian cancer 
• Father, brother, uncle or grandfather with male breast cancer 
• Triple-negative breast cancer diagnosed at age 60 or younger (a tumor that lacks estrogen, progesterone and HER2 receptors) 
• Ashkenazi Jewish ancestry 
• A previously identified BRCA mutation in the family 

There are three types of ovarian cancer, distinguished by where the cancer begins: 

 

• Epithelial ovarian cancer – accounts for most ovarian cancers; begins in the tissue covering the outside of the ovaries 
• Stromal ovarian cancer – begins in the ovarian tissue that contains hormone-producing cells 
• Germ cell ovarian cancer – begins in the egg-producing cells 

 

Most of the time, ovarian cancer develops in women for no known reason. A family history of ovarian cancer and certain genetic factors may increase your risk. 

Your risk also increases as you get older. It is more common in women older than 65 years of age who have gone through menopause. 

Ovarian cancer can spread to many other regions of the body, such as the lymph nodes, stomach, intestines or liver. 

While there is no known way to prevent ovarian cancer, there are ways you can lower your risk of developing it. 

Know your family history. Be aware of ovarian cancer symptoms and any personal risk factors. Knowing your family history — especially for gynecological conditions such as ovarian cancer — gives you a lot of information that can help you and your doctor potentially stay ahead of a cancer diagnosis. 
 
Maintain a healthy lifestyle. Eating a balanced diet, getting regular exercise and maintaining a healthy weight can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. For some women, taking birth control pills or breastfeeding after giving birth may be options to reduce their risk. 

Get regular care from your PCP. A crucial part of cancer prevention includes getting regular care before you notice any symptoms. Work with your primary-care provider (PCP) for your annual checkups, immunizations and screenings. In addition, attend an annual well-woman exam with your OB-GYN. 
 
Pay attention to your body. You know what's normal for your body and what is not, so you can notice subtle changes first. Paying attention to your body means everything from your breasts, periods, weight, bathroom habits, sleep, energy levels and more. 

Schedule an appointment with your physician right away if you have any concerns or questions.