What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands that produce eggs (ova) for reproduction. The ovaries also produce the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, it is more difficult to treat and is frequently fatal. Early-stage ovarian cancer, in which the disease is confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully.

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

 

What Are Common Signs and Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?

Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often vague and can be mistaken for other common conditions. However, the most common symptoms include:

• Bloating or swelling of the abdomen

• Pelvic or abdominal pain

• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly

• Urgency or frequency in urination

• Fatigue

• Indigestion or nausea

• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation

• Unexplained weight loss or gain

 

Can We Prevent Ovarian Cancer?

While there's no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, certain factors are believed to reduce a woman's risk:

• Use of oral contraceptives (birth control pills)

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding

• Tubal ligation or hysterectomy

• Removal of both ovaries

• Genetic testing and preventive surgery for women with a high risk of ovarian cancer due to family history or genetic mutations

 

How Do We Diagnose Ovarian Cancer?

Diagnosing ovarian cancer typically involves a combination of physical examinations, imaging tests, and surgical procedures:

• Pelvic examination

• Imaging tests such as ultrasound or CT scans to look for ovarian tumors

• Blood tests to measure cancer antigen 125 (CA-125) levels, which are often elevated in ovarian cancer

• Biopsy, often conducted as part of a surgical procedure to remove a tumor or take a tissue sample

 

What Treatment Options Are Available for Ovarian Cancer?

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the cancer's stage and may include one or more of the following:

• Surgery: To remove the cancerous growths as much as possible. This may involve removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and nearby lymph nodes.

• Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells, often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. It can also be used before surgery to shrink the tumors.

• Targeted Therapy: Uses drugs or other substances to precisely identify and attack cancer cells, often while doing little damage to normal cells.

• Hormone Therapy: For cancers that are sensitive to hormones.

• Immunotherapy: Helps the body's immune system fight the cancer.

• Radiation Therapy: Rarely used for ovarian cancer but may be recommended in certain situations.

Each treatment plan is tailored to the individual's needs, considering the type and stage of cancer, as well as the patient's preferences and overall health.