Ovarian Cancer Prevention
August 31, 2009
Ovarian cancer or cancer of the ovary is a common form of cancer in women. Studies have shown that middle and upper class women of developed nations are highly susceptible to this disease.
This is also one of the major causes of cancer deaths among women. The risk of developing ovarian cancer increases after 60 years of age. Nearly half of ovarian cancer patients are women above 65.
Ovarian cancer prevention
It is not yet clear whether we could prevent ovarian cancer. Several studies have nonetheless suggested that the risk of ovarian cancer could be significantly reduced through certain methods.
Pregnancy
Some studies have shown that the risk of ovarian cancer could be reduced through conception. Women who have had their first child before 30 have 30 to 60 percent lesser chance of developing ovarian cancer. After each successive pregnancy, the risk of ovarian cancer further decreases. Breastfeeding can also reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
Oral contraceptives can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Women who take birth control pills for at least five years have 40 to 50 percent less chance of developing ovarian cancer. However, prolonged use of oral contraception should be done under the supervision of your gynecologist. Sometimes prolonged use of birth control pills could increase the risk of breast cancer.
Normal body mass index can help to prevent ovarian cancer. To reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, the body mass index of an adult woman should remain below 25. Low fat and high fiber diet and regular exercise are recommended to protect your body from cancer cells.
Nutrients
Certain antioxidant nutrients could help to prevent ovarian cancer. It is believed that intake of vitamin A can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Flavonoids, which are antioxidant rich plant compounds, could be beneficial for preventing ovarian cancer.
Green tea is particularly recommended to prevent ovarian cancer. Besides green tea, researchers believe that flavonoids present in black tea and Oolong tea could produce similar results. Omega-3 fatty acids found in large amounts in cold-water fish, whole grains and nuts could be consumed to reduce ovarian cancer risk.
Though the media likes to hype green tea, all different kinds of Camellia Sinensis teas are going to be similarly healthy. They’re all high in antioxidants, just in different kinds. If you want the best for your health, try switching off between the different kinds of tea each day. Drink a little black, a little green and oolong, etc.