The strongest risk for ovarian cancer is a family history of the disease. Women with a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) who have had ovarian cancer are at significantly higher risk than the general population. Studies have found that up to 10% of women with ovarian cancer have a first-degree relative with the disease, compared to only 1-2% of women in the general population.
Genetic mutations in certain genes, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, can also increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Women carrying these mutations are at an even higher risk than those with a family history of the disease. Additionally, women who have had high levels of estrogen over a long period of time, such as those who have taken hormone replacement therapy or birth control pills for more than five years, have a slightly increased risk of ovarian cancer.
Other factors that may contribute to the risk of ovarian cancer include age, obesity, smoking, and infertility. Women who have never given birth have a slightly higher risk than women who have had children. Additionally, women who began menstruating at an early age and/or experienced menopause at a late age are at a higher risk than those with a more average age of onset.
In conclusion, the strongest risk factor for ovarian cancer is a family history of the disease, followed by genetic mutations in certain genes and long-term exposure to high levels of estrogen. Other risk factors, such as age, obesity, smoking, and infertility can also contribute to the risk of ovarian cancer.