Although in some cases doctors cannot explain why a woman developed GTD, the following factors may increase the risk of developing this disease:
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Age
Because a woman's egg must be fertilized with sperm before GTD can occur, women of childbearing age are at greater risk than those who cannot have children. The risk of GTD, although always low, is highest in women who become pregnant in their late 30s and early 40s.
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Prior GTD
Women who have had one hydatidiform mole or choriocarcinoma are at increased risk of having another.
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Blood Type
For unexplained reasons, women with blood types B or AB have a slightly higher risk of GTD than those with types A or O. However, this risk factor is not as strong as age and past history of GTD.
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Diet
There is some evidence, albeit weak, that indicates that women whose diets are low in beta carotene or vitamin A may have a slightly higher risk of developing GTD.
