As cancer diagnoses continue to rise, more women are looking for ways to decrease their risk of developing the disease. To that end, new research suggests that one potential method of reducing the risk of cancer is to have the fallopian tubes removed.
The fallopian tubes, which connect the ovaries to the uterus, are responsible for carrying eggs from the ovaries to the uterus. They are also where many types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, begin.
The research, conducted by a team at the Royal College of Surgeons in Ireland, found that the risk of developing ovarian cancer is almost halved when the fallopian tubes are removed. The research also indicated a significant reduction in the risk of developing other cancer types, including breast cancer.
Dr. Fergal Malone, a professor of obstetrics and gynecology at the Royal College of Surgeons, told The New York Times that removing the fallopian tubes is a “very good option,” noting that the procedure is done laparoscopically and carries very few risks. He also noted that the procedure has the potential to reduce cancer risk in women of all ages.
The authors of the study stress that the decision to have the fallopian tubes removed is highly personal, and should be discussed with a doctor or other health care professional. They note that the procedure is not necessary or recommended for all women, but could be used as a preventative option for women at high risk of developing certain types of cancer.
While more research is necessary to further understand the potential benefits of removing the fallopian tubes, the findings of this study indicate that the procedure could be an effective way to reduce the risk of cancer in some women. Women should discuss the risks and benefits with their doctor to determine if this procedure is right for them.