Teal Talk Day: What To Know If Ovarian Cancer Runs In Your Family

woman getting examed for ovarian cancer on teal talk day

Source: Suriyapong Thongsawang / Getty

Ovarian cancer is not nearly as prevalent as some other cancers in women such as breast and uterine. For that reason, it isn’t discussed as often and sometimes it doesn’t feel real. However, for the one in every 75 women who will get it (says Planned Parenthood), the pain and trauma surrounding it is very real. That is especially true for Black women, who face significantly lower survival rates of ovarian cancer than other groups, according to the National Cancer Institute (NCI).

While ovarian cancer rates have dropped steadily for all groups over recent decades, that hasn’t been the case for Black women. In fact, between the years 1975 and 2016, five-year survival rates in Black women dropped by three percent, says the NCI. This is just one of the reasons Teal Talk Day is so important – it’s a day to raise awareness for ovarian cancer. The number of cases might be low, but for women who are affected, the implications are serious and these women need to be seen. Here’s what to do if ovarian cancer runs in your family.

Understanding Your Family History

Close-up of a serious woman with ovarian cancer sitting while reading a book

Source: Daniel Llao Calvet / Getty

While only three percent of breast cancer cases result from a genetic mutation, 10 percent of ovarian cancer cases are due to an inherited genetic mutation, specifically of the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, according to the CDC. So knowing if this cancer, or this mutation, runs in your family can help you in your battle against it.

The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes can be inherited on your mother or father’s side, so gather medical history information from both sides of your family. Present these to your doctor. If they think it’s necessary, they might refer you to a genetic counselor.

Genetic counselors specialize in analyzing a person’s family medical history, and determine if genetic testing for specific conditions is necessary. If a genetic counselor does recommend genetic testing for the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, the best course of action is to first have someone in your family who has had ovarian cancer take the test. If they test positive for this mutation, then the counselor will likely recommend that you (and other family members at risk) also get the test.

SEE ALSO

How To Manage Your Risk

Female gynecologist doctor obtaining a cervical smear

Source: Anchiy / Getty

While the medical community is still developing better ways to screen for this cancer, there are steps you can take to reduce your risk of developing it, or increase your chances of finding it early.

Get regular exams. During your annual women’s health exam, your doctor will perform a pelvic exam. During this exam, she’ll feel the uterus and ovaries, looking for inconsistencies in shape and size. Any detected changes can be a sign that further testing should be done.
Take birth control pills. The NCI reports that women who have taken birth control pills have a 30 to 50 percent lower risk of ovarian cancer than women who have never taken oral contraceptives.
Preventative surgery. When women test positive for the genetic mutations associated with ovarian cancer, some choose to undergo something called a salpingo-oophorectomy. This is the surgical removal of the fallopian tubes and ovaries. Some insurance companies consider this to be elective if cancer is not present, so speak to your doctor about your options if you are interested in the surgery.
Maintain a healthy weight. Obesity is associated with a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

SEE ALSO

Additional Risk Factors For Ovarian Cancer

Young African-American woman having stomach pain

Source: supersizer / Getty

There are additional risk factors associated with ovarian cancer that are not within a patient’s control. However, if these apply to you, inform your doctor so that they can monitor your health and take appropriate action.

Early or late first menstruation. Women who started their period at a young age or late age might have a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Women typically start menstruation between the ages of 10 and 16.
Endometriosis. Women who have endometriosis face a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Never having been pregnant. Women who have had children have a lower risk of ovarian cancer than women who have not.

Ovarian cancer is one of the silent killers of women, but Teal Talk day exists so that we can break the silence. Empowering yourself with knowledge on your ovarian cancer risk is one of your best weapons in the fight against ovarian cancer.

SEE ALSO

What You Should Know If Ovarian Cancer Runs In Your Family