Ovarian cancer risk may increase with obesity and unhealthy lifestyle: doctors say

Ovarian cancer, also known as the “silent disease” because of its vague early symptoms, has drawn attention from doctors for its association with obesity, sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy eating habits.

Health experts say that while genetics and age remain major risk factors, modern lifestyle patterns may also be contributing to increased cancer risk in women.

According to global health estimates, ovarian cancer remains one of the leading causes of cancer-related deaths in women, as it is often detected at an advanced stage. Symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort, fatigue, and changes in appetite are often ignored or mistaken for routine digestive problems, delaying diagnosis and treatment.

Dr Aditya Vidushi, senior consultant medical oncology at Asian Hospital, said obesity and poor lifestyle habits can cause hormonal and metabolic changes in the body, increasing long-term cancer risk.

“Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that can remain very quiet in its early stages, so many women may not initially know they have ovarian cancer,” Dr. Vidushi said.

Doctors say rising obesity levels, increased consumption of processed foods, lack of exercise, chronic stress and sleep deprivation are emerging as major public health concerns, especially in urban populations.

According to Dr. Vidushi, excess body fat can change hormone levels, especially estrogen, while increasing chronic inflammation in the body. These changes can create conditions that promote the development of certain cancers, including ovarian cancer.

“Our lifestyle can increase the risk of some types of cancer, such as ovarian cancer. Obesity can affect hormones, increase inflammation, and cause metabolic changes. These factors can increase the risk of cancer over time,” the oncologist said.

Medical experts emphasize that while obesity alone does not directly cause ovarian cancer, it is still an important risk factor that should be ignored. Overweight women often face additional health conditions such as diabetes, high blood pressure, and metabolic disorders, which can further impact their overall health.

Doctors are also increasingly concerned about changes in urban lifestyles over the past decade. Long working hours, excessive screen exposure, decreased physical activity, lack of sleep, and reliance on highly processed foods contribute to weight gain and poor metabolic health in women of all ages.

Another major challenge, experts say, is low awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer. Red flags are often nonspecific, which causes many women to put off seeking medical attention.

Common symptoms associated with ovarian cancer include persistent bloating, pelvic pain, bloating, constipation, fatigue, frequent urination, loss of appetite, and unexplained weight changes.

“Many women do not know much about the symptoms and risk factors of cancer. Women should be aware of symptoms such as bloating, pelvic pain, and persistent fatigue. If these symptoms persist for several weeks, they should seek medical attention,” said Dr. Bidushi.

Doctors emphasize that lifestyle changes can significantly improve your overall health and potentially reduce your risk of cancer. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy weight, reducing intake of processed foods, and managing stress levels are considered important preventive measures.

Experts also advise women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to get regular checkups and talk to their doctors about their individual risk profile.

Health experts emphasize that early detection remains one of the most effective means of improving ovarian cancer survival rates. They say increasing awareness of symptoms and making healthier lifestyle choices can play an important role in reducing the long-term burden of disease in women.