What should you know about ovarian cancer age?

Risk is not determined by age alone. Menstrual and reproductive history, inherited gene changes, previous cancer treatment and family history may also matter. Symptoms such as persistent bloating, pelvic discomfort, feeling full quickly or changes in urination deserve assessment when they are new or unusual for you.

A clinician may combine your history with an examination, blood tests and imaging. A pelvic ultrasound can show the ovaries and nearby structures, but an image alone does not establish the type of growth. Further testing may be needed.

Arrange a medical review for ongoing or changing symptoms, whatever your age. Bring a record of when symptoms began, how often they occur and any family history of ovarian or breast cancer. If cancer is diagnosed, ask how age, general health and personal priorities affect surgery, chemotherapy or other options.

People with a notable family pattern may be offered BRCA genetic testing or another inherited-risk discussion. Genetic results can inform relatives and future care, but they do not predict exactly what will happen to one person.

Contact a clinician promptly for persistent abdominal swelling, pelvic pain, unexplained weight change, unusual bleeding or difficulty eating. Seek urgent help for severe sudden pain, repeated vomiting, fainting, heavy bleeding or trouble breathing. These symptoms can have causes other than cancer, but urgent assessment is appropriate.

Ask which findings make ovarian cancer more or less likely, whether imaging is appropriate, whether your family history changes genetic counselling, and how your age and other health conditions would affect each treatment option.