When we talk about ovarian cancer risk, weight is one factor that sometimes comes up. Research suggests that having obesity may increase the risk of certain types of ovarian cancer. But weight alone does not determine whether someone will develop the disease. Understanding how body weight may be linked to ovarian cancer can help you make informed choices about your health without blaming yourself.
How can body weight affect
Obesity may increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer. This is because of hormonal and metabolic changes. Fat tissue can also affect hormone levels ( e.g the level of oestrogen). Long-term exposure to more estrogen can affect the development of some cells. The excess body fat can lead to increased insulin and inflammatory levels that regulate metabolism. Not all forms of ovarian cancer have such a link, but it is mire closeley link to body weight than other types of cancer
Does losing weight lower the risk?
Keeping a healthy weight can help reduce the risk of some cancers. If you are above your healthy weight range, gradual changes in your eating habits and daily activity can support better overall health. Maintain a healthy lifestyle, such as exercise, good nutrition, adequate sleep, and consuming fewer highly processed foods. If you have a normal body weight, there is no need to bother with any other weight loss due to concern of ovarian cancer.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer?
There are other risk factors for ovarian cancer, such as:
Age
History of ovarian or breast cancer in the family.
Changes to inherited genes (including genes BRCA1 and BRCA2)
Certain reproductive factors
History of cancers –
A risk factor does not indicate that you will get ovarian cancer. It's also possible to develop the disease in the absence of known risk factors. Talk to your doctor if you have breast or ovarian cancer in your family. Referrals for genetic counselling and/or genetic tests may be necessary based on your history.
If You're Worried, What Should You Do?
If you have a problem with your weight, or you think you might have a risk of ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor. They can assess your medical and family history and can inform you of the risk to you that may exist. Also, take note of ongoing symptoms. Ovarian Cancer can lead to:
Persistent bloating
A pain in the pelvis or abdomen
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Early satiety - feeling full earlier than normal.
Relax, these are very common symptoms and may have lots of causes, but if they persist or keep coming, discuss this with your doctor. Other risk factors may exist that increase the risk of ovarian cancer, but staying within a healthy weight range decreases the risk. Don't focus on just weight loss, but on habits that will help you to maintain your health in general.