14 Oct, 2025
14 Oct, 2025
This article is medically reviewed by Dr. Tirathram Kaushik, Senior Consultant - GI, HPB, Gynecological & Thoracic Oncosurgery and Robotic Surgery, HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali.
Anyone can get ovarian cancer. However, some women are at a higher risk. This is because they carry factors that may contribute to an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
These factors include lifestyle, genetics, and reproductive factors.
Different factors that may increase the risk of ovarian cancer are early menstruation, family history of ovarian cancer, presence of BRCA1/2 mutations, late menopause, and never being pregnant.
Lifestyle factors, such as smoking, obesity, and hormone replacement therapy, may also increase the risk of ovarian cancer. However, some factors, such as breastfeeding, using oral contraceptives, and having multiple pregnancies, lower ovarian cancer risk.
Hereditary cancers are cancers that develop due to inherited genetic mutations. Sporadic cancers refer to those that occur randomly.
Hereditary cancer results from inherited genetic changes in specific genes. These changes in the genes may elevate the risk of various cancers, such as inherited ovarian cancer, colorectal cancer, breast cancer, and prostate cancer.
Such mutations may be suspected in families with multiple members affected with the same or related cancers, particularly at a younger age.
The following are the different genetic factors associated with ovarian cancer:
BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the genes responsible for repairing damaged DNA and preventing cells from dividing abnormally. Mutations in these genes increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 result in early and more aggressive ovarian cancer. Genetic testing helps in detecting such mutations, allowing patients to make informed health decisions.
Patients with these mutations may undergo routine monitoring or risk-reduction surgeries.
Lynch syndrome (hereditary nonpolyposis colorectal cancer) is a condition caused by mutations in the DNA mismatch repair genes.
Although commonly linked to the endometrial and colorectal cancers, Lynch syndrome significantly elevates the risk of ovarian cancer as well. This syndrome increases the risk of ovarian cancer by 10-15%.
Apart from the BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations and Lynch syndrome, various other mutations also increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Other genes that cause ovarian cancer or are associated with ovarian cancer development when mutated include RAD51C, RAD51D, BRIP1, PALB2, TP53, PTEN, and STK11.
Although less common, mutations in these genes may affect the lifetime risk of ovarian cancer. These genetic mutations can be detected through the genetic testing panels.
Inherited genetic mutations associated with ovarian cancer generally have an autosomal dominant inheritance pattern. Only a single copy of the faulty gene is required to increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Men may also be carriers of these defective genes. Individuals with a family history of breast, ovarian, and colorectal cancers are at higher risk of developing cancer. Early recognition is essential to implement preventive measures.
Increasing age is an ovarian cancer risk factor. Although ovarian cancer may occur at any age, women over 50 years of age are especially at higher risk. The risk further increases after menopause.
Factors contributing to increased risk are accumulated genetic damage, hormonal changes, and reduced ovarian function. Ovarian cancer may also occur in younger women, especially those with inherited mutations.
Lifestyle factors also affect the risk of ovarian cancer. Obesity is identified as a risk factor because of its association with higher estrogen levels.
Smoking and post-menopausal use of long-term hormone replacement therapy are also identified as risk factors. It is possible to mitigate this risk by maintaining optimum weight, eating a healthy diet, performing regular physical activity, and avoiding tobacco.
Reproductive history is also closely associated with ovarian cancer risk. Women who have never been pregnant, have had fewer pregnancies, or have fertility issues are at increased risk for ovarian cancer.
Early menstruation and late menopause also increase ovarian cancer risk. Factors that may reduce ovarian cancer risk include long-term use of oral contraceptives, breastfeeding, and having multiple pregnancies.
Additional Reading: Ovarian Cancer vs Ovarian Cyst: Symptoms, Types, and Diagnosis
As several myths surround hereditary ovarian cancer, it is normal for one to get confused. In such cases, it is essential to see a doctor for accurate information.
One of the common myths is that only women are the carriers of the mutated genes associated with ovarian cancer. However, men may also transfer mutated genes.
Another myth is that the absence of BRCA mutations rules out the ovarian cancer risk. The truth is, while BRCA mutations increase ovarian cancer risk, other mutations also enhance the risk.
Additional Reading: Breaking Down Some Major Myths About Ovarian Cancer | HCG
Tests for hereditary ovarian cancer involve genetic testing for ovarian cancer. The samples for genetic tests may be blood or saliva.
The commonly tested genes are BRCA1, BRCA2, and mismatch repair genes linked to Lynch syndrome.
Doctors may also recommend expanded multi-gene panel tests to screen for less common mutations, such as RAD51C, RAD51D, BRIP1, and PALB2. Genetic counseling should be given before and after the genetic testing.
A leading cancer hospital in Borivali, Mumbai, HCG Cancer Centre is enabled to offer comprehensive cancer care services for different types of cancer, including ovarian cancer.
The following are the key reasons why you should choose HCG Cancer Centre, Borivali, for your advanced ovarian cancer treatment:
The hospital offers organ-specific care for ovarian cancer through a multidisciplinary team of experts. The multidisciplinary care team comprises gynecologic oncologists, surgical oncologists, medical oncologists, radiologists, pathologists, and experienced oncology nurses.
Apart from the conventional treatment options, the center also has targeted therapies, precision medicine, and minimally invasive surgeries. The supportive care team includes physiotherapists, counselors, and nutritionists.
This cancer hospital is equipped with advanced technologies to manage ovarian cancer with high precision and accuracy. Modern technologies available include robotic surgery with da Vinci X, HIPEC and PIPAC, targeted systemic therapies, and more. We also employ molecular profiling to offer a customized treatment plan.
HCG Borivali follows a unique, comprehensive care approach for ovarian cancer management through a robust expert team, advanced diagnostic and management options, and support services.
Treatment is provided through a multidisciplinary team of experts. The hospital also offers supportive services, such as pain management, nutritional guidance, physiotherapy, rehabilitation, and counseling. Our care team strives to deliver holistic cancer care, which prioritizes the overall well-being of our patients.
This health article was all about answering the burning question, “Is ovarian cancer hereditary?”
Ovarian cancer may occur either through inherited genetic mutations or sporadically. Mutations in the BRCA1, BRCA2, and mismatch repair genes linked to Lynch syndrome are the most common cause of hereditary ovarian cancer.
Possible reasons for ovarian cancer development include age, lifestyle, and reproductive history. Undergoing an ovarian cancer hereditary test may help you gain valuable insights into your ovarian health and help you become more aware of your body and make informed health decisions.
Dr. Tirathram Kaushik
Senior Consultant - GI, HPB, Gynecological & Thoracic Oncology and Robotic Surgery
MBBS, MS (Gen Surgery), DNB (Surgical Oncology), Fellowship in Da Vinci Robotic Surgery, USA
Dr. Tirathram Kaushik is a highly skilled and experienced senior consultant in GI, HPB, gynecological & thoracic oncology, as well as robotic surgery, at HCG Cancer Centre, a well-known cancer hospital in Borivali. With over a decade of expertise in delivering comprehensive cancer care, Dr. Kaushik brings a strong academic background and advanced surgical proficiency to the forefront of oncology treatment.
Dr. Kaushik's surgical expertise spans thoracic oncology, gastrointestinal malignancies, hepato-pancreato-biliary (HPB) surgeries, urological cancers, and gynecological oncology. He is also a certified robotic surgeon, having earned a prestigious fellowship in Da Vinci Robotic Surgery from Intuitive Surgical in the USA.
Appointment Link: Book an Appointment with Dr. Tirathram Kaushik.
