Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women. This accounts for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.

It’s important to know how to recognize the symptoms and when to call the doctor.

There has been a lot of research on several risk factors that will increase women’s chances of developing epithelial ovarian cancer. Here are five simple ways to decrease your risk.

* Family history: Women with a mother, sister, grandmother or aunt who has had ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease. Therefore, it is important to have regular gynecology visits and have annual pap smears.

* Obesity: Obesity has been connected to the risk of many cancers but more commonly ovarian cancer. It’s not exactly clear as to why, but a body mass index of at least 30 puts you at risk for an aggressive kind of ovarian cancer. The best practice you can do is to have normal body weight and to make sure you’re eating a healthy diet.

* Estrogen hormone replacement therapy: Long-term use of HRT can increase your risk of Ovarian cancer. There are many research studies that show the link of HRT and ovarian cancer. The American Cancer Society says if 1,000 women 50 years old took hormones for menopause for five years, one extra ovarian cancer could develop.

* Smoking and alcohol use: Smoking and alcohol always increase your risk for any kind of cancer. But they are not directly associated with ovarian cancer. However, decreasing your intake of alcohol and putting down the cigarettes will decrease your risk of cancer and many other illnesses.

* Talcum powder: It’s believed that using talcum powder on a sanitary napkin can cause particles to travel through to the vagina, uterus and fallopian tubes to the ovary. Thousands of consumers have filed lawsuits against Johnson & Johnson and other manufacturers, claiming the longtime use of their baby powder products resulted in an ovarian cancer diagnosis.

SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER

Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in the early stages. This is partly because the ovaries - two small, almond-shaped organs on both sides of the uterus - are deep within the abdominal cavity.

Here are some symptoms to be aware of:

* Bloating

* Pelvic or abdominal pain

* Trouble eating or feeling full quickly

* Feeling the need to urinate urgently or often

* Pain during sex

* Fatigue

* Constipation or menstrual changes

Diet, exercise, rest and laxatives can help. If symptoms are persistent, consult with a doctor. Unfortunately, symptoms typically occur in advanced stages. It happens when tumor growth creates pressure on the bladder and rectum, and fluid begins to form.

Remember to get frequent checkups and follow up with your doctor.

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