Cancer is a leading cause of death worldwide, with ovarian cancer being one of the most deadly. This cancer affects the ovaries, which are two small organs located in the pelvis of a woman.

It is often difficult to diagnose since symptoms usually occur in later stages of the disease, making it challenging for doctors to detect early. Risk factors such as obesity, age, and family history have been discovered and studied, but recent research demonstrates that genetics plays a significant role in ovarian cancer development.

What are inherited genes?

Genes are made up of DNA which provides your body with instructions on how to function. Inherited genes are passed down from one generation to the next. Individuals inherit two copies of each gene, one copy from their mother and one from their father.

If you have inherited an abnormal or mutated gene from one of your parents, you may be predisposed to developing certain diseases.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes

The BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes produce proteins that help to repair damaged DNA in cells and suppress the formation of tumors. If either of these genes are mutated or changed, they can cause an increased risk of developing breast, ovarian and other cancers.

Inherited mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the two most well-known genetic causes of ovarian cancer.

Genetic Testing for Inherited Genes

Genetic testing is available to determine if individuals carry mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. This testing is typically recommended for individuals with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.

Genetic testing includes a blood test to look for changes in the BRCA genes. Results can take several weeks to come back. A positive genetic test result means that an individual has inherited a mutation in one of these genes that increases the chance of developing ovarian cancer.

Likelihood of Developing Ovarian Cancer

Women who inherit a mutation in the BRCA1 gene have up to a 40 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer. Women who inherit a mutation in the BRCA2 gene have up to a 20 percent chance of developing ovarian cancer.

These numbers are significantly higher than the general population, where only 1.3 percent of women will develop ovarian cancer in their lifetime.

Other Genetic Causes of Ovarian Cancer

While BRCA1 and BRCA2 are commonly known genetic markers, there are other inherited genetic mutations associated with ovarian cancer. These mutations are less well-known but are still associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

These genetic mutations include Lynch syndrome, RAD51C, RAD51D, and others.

Heredity and Prevention

Knowing that inherited genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer is critical. While these genetic markers cannot be changed, they can be managed.

Women with a mutation in either of these genes should be monitored closely by their healthcare providers and receive regular screening. Some women may choose to have their ovaries and fallopian tubes removed prophylactically in an effort to reduce their risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Lifestyle choices like maintaining a healthy weight, regular exercise, and healthy eating can also reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

Understanding the role of inherited genes in ovarian cancer development is essential. Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer should consider genetic testing to determine if they carry a mutation in BRCA1 or BRCA2.

While these genetic markers cannot be changed, they can be well-managed with proper screening and lifestyle choices. Early detection is key in treating ovarian cancer, and recognizing genetic risk factors is an important step in early detection and prevention.