Ovarian Cancer: Don’t Overlook Early Signs

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a cancer type that effects the ovaries. (female reproductive organs that produce eggs). Cancer occurs when cells in the body grow and divide uncontrollably, forming a mass or tumor. In the ovarian cancer: cancer cells develop in one or both of the ovaries and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected and treated early. Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because it can develop and spread without causing any significent symptoms.

Statistics And Survival Rates of Ovarian Cancer

Overian cancer one of the most deadly types of cancer among women. Here are some statistics on ovarian cancer:

• Ovarian cancer about 3% of all cancers in women.
• In 2020, it was estimated that there were about 21,750 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in the United States and 13,940 deaths from the disease.
• Five-year survival rate for ovarian cancer is about 49%, so half of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will survive for at least five years after diagnosis.
• Survival rate is much higher for women whose cancer is diagnosed and treated in its early stages. Five-year survival rate for women with early-stage ovarian cancer is about 92%.
• Ovarian cancer is more common in older women, with more than half of cases occurring in women over the age of 63.
• Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. About 20% of ovarian cancers are thought to be caused by inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.

What Are Causes of Ovarian Cancer?

Main cause of ovarian cancer is not clear. But researchers believe that it is caused by a combination of genetic, hormonal and environmental factors. Some of potential risk factors are below:

1. Age: Risk of developing ovarian cancer increases as a woman gets older. Most cases seen in women over the age of 50.
2. Family History: Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer are at an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer. This risk is even higher if the cancer occurred in a first-degree relative. (like mother or sister)
3. Genetic Mutations: Some inherited genetic mutations (like as BRCA1 and BRCA2) increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer. Women who carry these mutations have a higher risk of developing both ovarian and breast cancer.
4. Hormonal Factors: Hormonal factors (like as early onset of menstruation, late menopause and infertility or not having children) increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
5. Endometriosis: Women who have endometriosis (a condition where the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside of it) have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
6. Lifestyle Factors: Factors such as obesity, smoking and a diet high in fat and low in fruits and vegetables have been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

What Are The 5 Early Signs of Ovarian Cancer?

5 Early signs of ovarian cancer are below:

1. Abdominal Discomfort or Pain: Women with ovarian cancer may experience persistent pain or discomfort in the lower abdomen or pelvis. This pain may be mild or severe and may feel like a dull ache or a sharp and stabbing pain. Some women may also experience pressure or a sense of fullness in the lower abdomen.
2. Bloating: Bloating is a common symptom of ovarian cancer, especially in the early stages. Women with ovarian cancer may experience persistent bloating or a feeling of fullness in the abdomen, even after eating small meals. Bloating may be accompanied by abdominal distension or an increase in the size of the waistline.
3. Changes in Bowel Habits: Women with ovarian cancer may experience changes in their bowel habits (like constipation or diarrhea). They may also experience more frequent urination or a sense of urgency to urinate.
4. Fatigue: Fatigue is a common symptom of many types of cancer and ovarian cancer. Women with ovarian cancer may experience persistent fatigue or a general feeling of weakness or malaise. They may feel tired even after getting enough rest and may have difficulty performing daily activities.
5. Loss of Appetite: Women with ovarian cancer may experience a loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness even after eating only small amounts of food. They may also experience nausea or vomiting.

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

Here are diagnosis tests used for ovarian cancer:

1. Medical History and Physical Examination: During the medical history, doctor will ask about any symptoms you are experiencing, such as abdominal pain, bloating or changes in bowel habits, as well as any risk factors you may have for ovarian cancer, such as family history of the disease, age or certain genetic mutations. During the physical examination, doctor will perform a pelvic exam for check for any abnormalities or masses in the ovaries or surrounding tissues.
2. Imaging Tests: Imaging tests are used to visualize the ovaries and surrounding tissues and to look for any abnormal growths or masses. Most common imaging tests used for ovarian cancer are transvaginal ultrasound, CT scan and MRI. Transvaginal ultrasound uses sound waves to create images of the ovaries and surrounding tissues. CT scan and MRI use X-rays and magnetic fields, respectively for create detailed images of the pelvic area.
3. Blood Tests: Blood tests can be used for measure levels of certain proteins that are often elevated in women with ovarian cancer (CA-125. CA-125 is a protein that is produced by ovarian cancer cells and is found in higher levels in women with ovarian cancer) than in healthy women. Elevated CA-125 levels can also be lead to other conditions, such as endometriosis or pelvic inflammatory disease, so this test is not always definitive for ovarian cancer diagnosis.
4. Biopsy: Biopsy is the most definitive way to diagnose ovarian cancer. Biopsy involves taking a tissue sample from the ovary or surrounding tissue and examining it under a microscope to look for cancer cells. There are several types of biopsies that may be used for ovarian cancer diagnosis. (Such as fine-needle aspiration biopsy, a core biopsy or a surgical biopsy).

What Are The Treatment Options of Ovarian Cancer?

Main treatment options for ovarian cancer are surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapy. In some cases, radiation therapy may also be used. Here is a detailed explanation of each treatment option:

1. Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for ovarian cancer and involves the removal of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus and any other effected tissue. In some cases, lymph nodes and other nearby tissues can also be removed. Goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancer as possible and to determine the extent and stage of the cancer. Surgery may be done using traditional open surgery or minimally invasive laparoscopic surgery.
2. Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy use of drugs to kill cancer cells. Chemotherapy may be used before or after surgery according to the stage of the cancer. Chemotherapy drugs are typically given intravenously but may also be given orally. Chemotherapy may lead to side effects. (like as hair loss, nausea and fatigue but these side effects can usually be managed with medication and other supportive care).
3. Targeted Therapy: Targeted therapy is a newer type of treatment that uses drugs to target specific molecules or proteins that are involved in cancer growth and spread. Targeted therapy may be used alone or in combination with chemotherapy. Targeted therapy can lead to side effects. (such as skin rash and diarrhea but these side effects are usually less severe than those caused by chemotherapy)
4. Radiation Therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation, (like X-rays or protons) for kill cancer cells. Radiation therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery. Radiation therapy may cause side effects (such skin irritation and fatigue) but these side effects are usually temporary.

How to Prevent Ovarian Cancer and Reduce Risk?

There are several steps women can take to reduce their risk. Here are some ways to prevent ovarian cancer and reduce your risk:

1. Use Birth Control: Women who use oral contraceptives have a lower risk of ovarian cancer than those who don’t. Longer you use birth control, the lower your risk. Talk to your doctor about the best type of birth control for you.
2. Consider Prophylactic Surgery: Women who have a high risk of ovarian cancer may consider prophylactic surgery to remove their ovaries and fallopian tubes before cancer develops. This is a major decision that should be made in consultation with a gynecologic oncologist.
3. Breastfeeding: Women who breastfeed have a lower risk of ovarian cancer than those who don’t. Breastfeeding reduces the number of times a woman ovulates, which may reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
4. Maintain a Healthy Weight: Being overweight or obese increases the risk of many types of cancer and also ovarian cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through regular exercise and a balanced diet can help reduce your risk.
5. Don’t Smoke: Smoking has been linked to an increased risk of many types of cancer including ovarian cancer. Quitting smoking can help reduce your risk.
6. Get Regular Check-Ups: Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or who have a genetic mutation that increases their risk and should talk to their doctor about regular screening. This may include blood tests and ultrasounds to detect early signs of ovarian cancer.
7. Know Your Family History: Women who have a family history of ovarian cancer may be at higher risk themselves. Talk to your doctor about genetic testing and get help for determine your risk.

Advices For Ovarian Cancer Patients

Here are some advice to help support and manage the emotional and physical challenges that come with a cancer diagnosis. Here are a few things that could be helpful:

1. Educate Yourself: Learn as much as you can about your diagnosis, treatment options and potential side effects. This can help you feel more empowered and involved in your own care.
2. Get Help: Don’t be afraid to ask for help from friends, family or support groups. It can be recommended to talk to others who have been through a similar experience.
3. Prioritize Self-Care: Taking care of yourself is important during cancer treatment. This may involve eating a healthy diet, getting enough rest and engaging in activities that bring you joy and relax.
4. Stay Active: Regular exercise can help improve your physical and emotional health during cancer treatment. Talk to your doctor about what types of exercise are safe for you.
5. Stay Positive: It’s normal to experience a range of emotions during cancer treatment, including fear, anxiety and depression. Try to focus on the things that bring you joy and maintain a positive outlook.
6. Communicate With Your Doctor: Keep an open line of communication with your doctors about any concerns or side effects you are experiencing. They can help you manage symptoms and provide guidance on your treatment plan.

We wish a healthy, happy and long life for you.

Also you can find advice for breast cancer in below page:

ARE YOU AWERE BREAST CANCER? WHAT İS BREAST CANCER SYMPTOMS ?