Hello and thanks for posting

I'm sorry your mum died from ovarian cancer and you want to know if you and your brother should get tested.

We do not know what causes ovarian cancer but a small number can run in families. Different things called risk factors can increase the chance of developing it. For example, getting older or having a family history of ovarian cancer. Having risk factors does not mean someone will develop ovarian cancer, and it may not be by enough to warrant genetic testing or additional screening. This is something that your GP can advise you about so do discuss it with them when you have the chance as they have been given training and guidelines in assessing people with a family history of cancer.

There are lifestyle factors that we can all follow to help reduce our risk of developing cancer.

I hope this is of some help . Do get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene

Hello and thanks for posting

I'm sorry your mum died from ovarian cancer and you want to know if you and your brother should get tested.

We do not know what causes ovarian cancer but a small number can run in families. Different things called risk factors can increase the chance of developing it. For example, getting older or having a family history of ovarian cancer. Having risk factors does not mean someone will develop ovarian cancer, and it may not be by enough to warrant genetic testing or additional screening. This is something that your GP can advise you about so do discuss it with them when you have the chance as they have been given training and guidelines in assessing people with a family history of cancer.

There are lifestyle factors that we can all follow to help reduce our risk of developing cancer.

I hope this is of some help . Do get back to us if you need any more information or support. You may find it helpful to talk things through with one of the nurses on our helpline. The number to call is Freephone 0808 800 4040 and the lines are open from 9am till 5pm Monday to Friday.

Kind regards,

Celene