The American Cancer Society (ACS) estimates that ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women in the country. Nearly 22,000 women are diagnosed and more than 50% of them can die every year in the country due to ovarian cancer.

Studies by the ACS suggest that most women carry one or more risk factors though they may not go on to develop the disease. Some of these factors include having a family history, aging, and infertility. If the woman began menstruation before age 12 and/or entered menopause after age 52, uses birth control, or has a history of endometriosis, these factors are considered to be of high risk. Modern cancer theory recommends that women with more than one risk factor should be educated on how to manage the risk and be informed on effective prevention methods for ovarian cancer.

These effective preventative measures are known to help one steer away from ovarin cancer:

Birth Control Pills
Oral contraception has been shown to significantly reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. This has been observed in women who have been taking birth control pills for three or more years. These medications may increase the chances of developing other cancers like breast cancer, so it’s important to speak with your doctor about the risks.

Surgery
Gynecological surgery such as tubal ligation and hysterectomy may reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. However, these procedures should be undergone only for a valid reason. In older women who need to undergo a hysterectomy, doctors may suggests that the ovaries also be removed simultaneously to reduce cancer threat if patients have other risk factors.

Nutrition
Regular consumption of a nutritious, balanced diet can boost immunity and help to regulate the metabolism. Some studies have shown that consuming more cruciferous vegetables such as cauliflower, broccoli, cabbage, and kale play a role in prevention of cancers of various kinds. These vegetables contain high levels of phytochemicals that are broken down into isothiocyanates that are known to fight cancer. They prevent infections and inflammation.

Other studies have shown that women who consume more vegetables can reduce their cancer risk by at least 40%. It’s also important to reduce meat, eggs, dairy, whole milk and saturated fats. Animal meats induce production of excess estrogen that results in the production of certain peptides that are implicated in cancer development. Consuming more soy products, fruits and less sugar are also useful.

Obesity
Weight reduction and regular exercise can greatly reduce cancer risk and the complications associated with diabetes and hypertension. Adolescent obesity that doesn’t reduce as you grow into adulthood can increase the risk of developing ovarian and other reproductive system cancers.

Aspirin
Taking regular, low-dose aspirin (less than 100 mg) can reduce ovarian cancer risk by as much as 23%. This was reported in a recent study conducted by the Huntsman Cancer Institute at the University of Utah.