September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that originates in the ovaries, and it can often go undetected until it spreads throughout the pelvis and abdomen. To help raise awareness, AdvantageCare Physicians OB/GYN Dr. Melinda Huang shared five facts about ovarian cancer.
- A personal history of breast cancer is a risk factor for getting ovarian cancer.
- Ovarian cancer is not common, and most cases of do not have a known cause.
- Giving birth is associated with a decreased risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Taking a form of oral contraception, especially if it’s for more than five years, can help to decrease your risk of ovarian cancer.
- There are blood tests available to see if a family gene mutation is present, and testing should be considered in a family with a history of ovarian, breast, uterine or colon cancer.
