Pesticide Exposure and the Risk of Ovarian Cancer among Postmenopausal Women in Rural Punjab, India

Although no ovarian cancer cases were detected during screening, the study highlights the prevalence of pesticide exposure among women in Punjab's Malwa region and its possible association with ovarian cancer risk. Routine population screening using CA-125 is not supported in light of current evidence and guidelines. Instead, strengthening diagnostic and registry systems in rural areas, reducing harmful exposures through safer agricultural practices, and conducting well-powered prospective studies with repeated exposure assessments are essential to clarify risks and inform targeted strategies in high-exposure settings.