Ovarian cancer research focuses on understanding risk, improving early detection and refining treatments.

Risk factors include age, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, and inherited mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2. Reproductive history also matters. Early menstruation, late menopause, and never having been pregnant slightly increase risk, while multiple pregnancies, breastfeeding and long term use of combined oral contraceptives reduce it. Endometriosis and some hormone replacement therapies are linked to higher risk. Lifestyle factors such as obesity and possibly talc use in the genital area have been investigated, though evidence on talc is mixed.

Because early stage ovarian cancer often produces vague symptoms like bloating or pelvic discomfort, many cases are diagnosed late. Large studies show that routine screening with ultrasound or CA125 blood tests in average risk women does not lower mortality and can cause harm through unnecessary surgery. Current efforts focus on more accurate biomarker panels, better risk stratification and targeted screening of high risk groups, especially carriers of genetic mutations.

Treatment typically includes surgery and platinum based chemotherapy. Research has transformed care for certain patients through targeted therapies. PARP inhibitors exploit DNA repair weaknesses in tumors with BRCA mutations or related defects, improving survival and extending remission. Anti angiogenic drugs that block tumor blood vessel growth are also used in some settings. Precision medicine approaches that profile tumor genetics are guiding selection of these treatments.

Ongoing trials are testing combinations of targeted agents, immunotherapy and maintenance strategies, aiming to turn ovarian cancer into a more manageable chronic disease and to improve outcomes through earlier, more accurate diagnosis.