women s health issues
Ovarian Cancer, Fallopian Tube Cancer, and Peritoneal Cancer
Prevention of Ovarian Cancer
There is no screening test for ovarian or fallopian tube cancer. However, some experts believe that if ovarian or breast cancer runs in the family, women should be tested for genetic abnormalities. If first- or second-degree relatives have such cancers, particularly among Ashkenazi Jewish families, women should discuss genetic testing forBRCAabnormalities with their doctors. Women with certainBRCAgene mutations may be offered the option of having both ovaries and fallopian tubes removed, even when no cancer is present. This approach eliminates the risk of ovarian cancer and reduces the risk of breast cancer. If women have first- or second-degree relatives with ovarian or breast cancer, they should ask their doctor about genetic testing forBRCAabnormalities. 