Ovarian cancer is a serious health condition that affects women. While less common than breast cancer, it is still a significant concern. According to the American Cancer Society, about 19,680 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer and 12,740 women will die from ovarian cancer. This guide will answer your questions about symptoms, risk factors, diagnosis, treatment, and why early detection matters.
Symptoms
Early-stage ovarian cancer often presents with vague or nonspecific symptoms, making it difficult to diagnose. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable. Some common symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Bloating or fullness in the abdomen
- Frequent urination or urgency
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight loss
- Back pain
If you experience any of these symptoms for several weeks, it’s important to consult with your healthcare provider.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer. These include:
- Age: Risk increases with age, particularly after the age of 50.
- Family History: Having a family history of cancer can increase your risk.
- Reproductive History: Women who have never given birth, started menstruation early, or gone through menopause late may have a slightly increased risk.
- Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, may have a slightly increased risk.
While these factors may increase your risk, it’s important to remember that these factors don’t guarantee getting ovarian cancer.
Screening and Diagnosis
Early detection of ovarian cancer is important for improving treatment outcomes. There’s no perfect screening test, but regular pelvic exams and CA-125 blood tests can help find problems early. Talk to your doctor about screening if you’re at high risk.
If your healthcare provider suspects ovarian cancer, they may recommend several tests to confirm the diagnosis. These may include:
- Pelvic exam
- Ultrasound
- Blood test (CA-125 protein levels)
- Laparoscopy
Treatment Options
Treatment will depend on the cancer stage and your health. Your doctor will create a personalized treatment plan. Options include:
- Surgery: May involve removing ovaries, fallopian tubes, and possibly the uterus.
- Chemotherapy: Medication to kill cancer cells.
- Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy rays to kill cancer cells (less common than surgery/chemo)
It is important to remember that early detection is key to successful treatment. Listen to your body, get regular check-ups, and don’t hesitate to talk to your doctor. If you don’t have a current doctor, don’t hesitate to reach out to one of our experienced CCMH Providers.
Resources:
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer.html
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
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