Last Updated:
Scientific findings increasingly link lifestyle and dietary habits to the risk of ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is an undercover killer and the deadliest gynecological malignancy. The global incidence is 6.7 per 100,000 females, with a death rate of 4.0 per 100,000. While genetics play a role, dietary factors may account for up to 30% of all cancers, especially in the Western world. Dr. Premanand, Onco Surgeon, SIMS Hospital, Chennai, shares all you need to know:
Scientific findings increasingly link lifestyle and dietary habits to the risk of ovarian cancer. An elevated body mass index (BMI >30) has been associated with a 12–13% higher risk. Diets high in glycemic index (GI) and glycemic load (GL) can cause hormonal disturbances and chronic inflammation, which may fuel abnormal ovarian cell growth. A 2008 meta-analysis found strong evidence for an association between high GI/GL diets and ovarian cancer, particularly in overweight and postmenopausal women.
Increased consumption of ultra-processed foods has also been linked to a higher risk of several cancers, including ovarian and brain cancers, as well as increased mortality from ovarian and breast cancers. These associations remained significant even after adjusting for socio-demographic factors, smoking status, physical activity, and other major dietary variables.
On the other hand, certain dietary elements offer protection. Cruciferous vegetables, fruits, and green tea have been shown in meta-analyses to reduce ovarian cancer risk by 11–16% in women with high intake. Long-term adherence to a low-fat diet has also demonstrated a reduction in ovarian cancer risk after eight years. Although results regarding physical activity are mixed, some studies suggest it improves survival following diagnosis. Women with healthier diets and a waist circumference of ≤88 cm had up to a 40% lower mortality rate after an ovarian cancer diagnosis.
While data gaps and methodological limitations still exist, the growing field of nutritional oncology highlights that preventive strategies should begin at the dinner table. Public health messaging must promote plant-based diets, weight management, and overall dietary balance as critical tools in both ovarian cancer prevention and survivorship.
In the journey from kitchen to clinic, our meals may not offer a cure—but they can be a powerful ally.
