Ovarian cancer is a cancer that begins in the two ovaries which are found on either side of the uterus. The ovaries are responsible for the production of eggs as well as the development of female hormones.
There are three types of ovarian cancers based on the tissues where they are found:
Epithelial cell tumours: the most common form of ovarian cancer, this starts in cells that cover the ovaries.
Germ cell tumours: this starts in the cells responsible for developing the eggs in the ovary.
Stromal cell tumours: this starts in the cells responsible for developing the female hormones in the ovary.
Risk factors typically associated with ovarian cancer are:
Aging more than 55 years
Having undergone hormone replacement therapy
Infertility or having undergone fertility treatment
Personal history of breast or ovarian cancer
Family history of ovarian cancer
Smoking
Obesity
The information provided on our website is for educational purposes and not intended to be a substitute for medical advice, diagnosis or treatment. You should always seek the advice of your doctor or other healthcare professional provider.
