HealthWise KnowledgeBase
Ovarian Cancer
Cause
Experts don't know exactly what causes ovarian cancer. Genetics, such as Reference DNA Opens New Window changes, are a risk factor for some women.
In general, about 1 out of 100 women will get ovarian cancer. That risk goes up to 5 out of 100 if one family member has had ovarian cancer, and 7 out of 100 if two or three relatives have had it.Reference 2
About 10 out of 100 ovarian cancers are thought to be caused by gene mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.Reference 3 The Reference risk for women Opens New Window Reference 
Opens New Window who have these gene changes is much higher than for women without them.
| By: | Reference Healthwise Staff | Last Revised: Reference October 22, 2012 |
| Medical Review: | Reference Adam Husney, MD - Family Medicine
Reference Ross Berkowitz, MD - Obstetrics and Gynecology |
|
© 1995-2011, Healthwise, Incorporated. Healthwise, Healthwise for every health decision, and the Healthwise logo are trademarks of Healthwise, Incorporated.
This information does not replace the advice of a doctor. Healthwise, Incorporated disclaims any warranty or liability for your use of this information. Your use of this information means that you agree to the Reference Terms of Use. Reference How this information was developed to help you make better health decisions.
