Environmental Exposures and Ovarian Cancer: Could Your Surroundings Be Putting You at Risk?

Ovarian cancer is the most lethal among all gynecologic malignancies, with an estimated 22,530 new cases and 13,980 deaths expected in the United States alone in 2019 (American Cancer Society, 2019). While no clear causes have been established for ovarian cancer, research has shown that environmental factors may play a role in increasing one’s risk.

Environmental exposures have been linked to many different types of cancers, including lung, skin, and bladder cancer. However, the relationship between environmental exposures and ovarian cancer is only just beginning to be explored. The National Cancer Institute estimates that only 15% of ovarian cancer cases are related to inherited mutations, meaning that environmental factors must be taken into account when studying the causes of this disease.

There are several environmental factors that have been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. These include air pollution, exposure to pesticides, and the use of talc-based body powders.

Air pollution, particularly from traffic-related sources, has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. A study conducted in California found that women living in areas with high levels of traffic-related pollution were more likely to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer than those living in less polluted areas (Pompeii et al., 2013).

Exposure to pesticides, particularly in farming communities, has also been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. A study conducted in Israel found that women who worked on farms that used pesticides had a higher risk of ovarian cancer than those who did not work on farms (Lerro et al., 2015).

Finally, the use of talc-based body powders has also been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer. Talc is a mineral that is often used in personal care products, and it has been suggested that talc particles can travel through the female reproductive system and reach the ovaries, where they can cause inflammation and tumor growth (Cramer et al., 2016).

In addition to these specific environmental exposures, other factors such as diet, lifestyle, and reproductive history may also play a role in increasing one’s risk of ovarian cancer. A diet high in fat and low in fiber, for example, has been linked to an increased risk, while pregnancy and breastfeeding have a protective effect.

While more research is needed to fully understand the relationship between environmental exposures and ovarian cancer, it is clear that taking steps to reduce one’s exposure to potential toxins is important for overall health. This may include choosing organic produce, avoiding the use of pesticides in the home and garden, and using talc-free body powders.

In conclusion, ovarian cancer is a devastating disease that takes the lives of thousands of women each year. While no clear cause has been established, environmental factors have been linked to an increased risk. By taking steps to reduce environmental exposures, we can help to reduce our risk of developing this disease and improve overall health and well-being.