Back to article list
Articles

Understanding the role of genetics in ovarian cancer

Cancer is caused by genetic mutations that allow cells to grow and divide uncontrollably to form a tumour. In some cases of ovarian cancer, the mutations are not inherited but are caused by genetic changes that happen during a person’s lifetime (also known as “somatic” mutations).⁠1

But ovarian cancer can also be passed down through families through mutations in sperm and egg cells (“germline” mutations). This doesn’t mean that everyone with a family member who has had breast, ovarian, uterine, or colorectal cancer will get cancer themselves, but they may be at a higher risk.⁠2 Environmental and lifestyle factors can also play a part.⁠1

Article cover Genetics
Article cover Genetics
Article cover Genetics

"If you have already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it’s important to know your genetic status as tumours caused by specific mutations may have varying levels of beneficial responses to different treatments."

Most germline mutations that are involved in the development of ovarian cancer are in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes.⁠1 The presence of a BRCA mutation increases the lifetime risk of ovarian cancer from around 1% to as high as 44% depending on which variant is inherited.⁠3 You can learn more about BRCA here.

There is also a significantly increased risk of ovarian cancer in people who have rare genetic conditions, such as Lynch syndrome, which is caused by mutations in the MLH1 or MSH2 genes.⁠1

If you have a family history of cancer, but aren’t sure about specific genes, you may want to speak to a genetic counsellor who can offer screening tests for you and your relatives.⁠4

You can learn more about the details of genetic testing here.

Preventative measures are also possible, such as surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes. Long-term drug treatment could also be an option, to reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Knowing the symptoms can also help you to know when you should seek medical assessment. There may also be lifestyle changes that can be made to reduce cancer risk.⁠4 You can read about the symptoms of ovarian cancer here.

Find out more

If you have already been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, it’s important to know your genetic status as tumours caused by specific mutations may have varying levels of beneficial responses to different treatments. You can learn more about treatments here, otherwise you can talk to your healthcare team and seek their advice.

Download

Suggested further reading

Welcome to Olivia

Your guide to living with ovarian cancer.
To access the platform, please confirm your eligibility:

By clicking on the continue button, you are confirming you are over 18 years old and have read and agree to the terms of use of the Olivia platform.

Olivia
Olivia
The digital patient pathway was co-developed by the European Society of Gynaecological Oncology (ESGO), the European Network of Gynaecological Cancer Advocacy Groups (ENGAGe), and AstraZeneca with funding provided by AstraZeneca.