Ovarian cancer risk may rise with obesity, unhealthy lifestyle habits: Doctors

Ovarian cancer, often called a “silent disease” because of its vague early symptoms, is increasingly drawing attention from doctors over its possible links with obesity, sedentary lifestyles and unhealthy dietary habits.

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

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

Dr Aditya Vidushi, Senior Consultant in Medical Oncology at Asian Hospital said obesity and poor lifestyle habits can create hormonal and metabolic changes in the body that may increase long-term cancer risk.

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“Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that can remain very quiet in the early stages, which is why many women may not realise they have it initially,” Dr Vidushi said.

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

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

“The way we live can increase the risk of some types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. Being obese can affect our hormones, increase inflammation, and cause changes in our metabolism. These factors can elevate the risk of cancer over time,” the oncologist said.

Medical experts stress that obesity alone does not directly cause ovarian cancer, but it remains an important risk factor that should not be ignored. Women who are overweight often face additional health conditions such as diabetes, hypertension and metabolic disorders, which may further affect overall health.

Doctors are also increasingly concerned about changing urban lifestyles over the past decade. Long working hours, excessive screen exposure, low physical activity, poor sleep and dependence on highly processed foods are contributing to weight gain and declining metabolic health among women across age groups.

Another major challenge, experts say, is low awareness about ovarian cancer symptoms. Since the warning signs are often non-specific, many women delay medical consultations.

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

“Many women do not know much about the symptoms of cancer and the risk factors. Women should pay attention to symptoms like bloating, pelvic pain, or fatigue that does not go away. They should visit the doctor if these symptoms persist for weeks,” Dr Vidushi said.

Doctors emphasise that lifestyle modifications can significantly improve overall health and potentially reduce cancer risks. Regular exercise, maintaining a healthy body weight, reducing processed food intake and managing stress levels are considered important preventive measures.

Experts also advise women with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer to undergo regular health screenings and consult doctors about their individual risk profiles.

Health specialists underline that early detection remains one of the most effective tools in improving ovarian cancer survival rates. They say greater awareness around symptoms and healthier lifestyle choices can play a crucial role in reducing long-term disease burden among women.