Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that occurs in the ovaries and can affect women of all ages. Statistics show that ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women and the fifth leading cause of cancer death among women.

In the United States alone, about 21,000 new cases are diagnosed every year, and approximately 14,000 women die annually due to this disease. However, there is a solution to the problem, and it comes in the form of affordable medication.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is caused when abnormal cells in the ovary begin to grow and divide out of control. These abnormal cells may lead to a tumor, which may either be benign (non-cancerous) or malignant (cancerous).

Ovarian cancer is challenging to diagnose in its early stages because it has no specific symptoms and often does not present any symptoms until the disease has spread to other areas in the body. However, some symptoms of ovarian cancer can include bloating, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, and difficulty eating or feeling full quickly.

What are the Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer?

Several factors have been linked to the development of ovarian cancer. These include;.

Age (women over 50 years old are more likely to develop ovarian cancer)
Family history of ovarian cancer
Personal history of breast cancer
Having endometriosis
Having a history of infertility
Having a genetic mutation (BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes)

How Can Affordable Medication Help in Preventing Ovarian Cancer?

The good news is that affordable medication is available that can help in preventing ovarian cancer. One such medication is oral contraceptives, commonly referred to as birth control pills.

The use of birth control pills has been found to decrease the risk of ovarian cancer.

Birth control pills contain synthetic hormones, which work by preventing ovulation (the release of eggs from the ovaries) and altering the lining of the uterus.

This makes it difficult for cancer cells to form and grow, ultimately reducing the risk of ovarian cancer.

According to a study conducted by the National Cancer Institute, women who take birth control pills for at least five years can reduce their risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50%.

Additionally, the study found that the longer a woman uses birth control pills, the greater the reduction in her risk of ovarian cancer.

How Affordable is Birth Control Pills?

Birth control pills are one of the most affordable forms of contraceptives. According to Planned Parenthood, the cost of birth control pills per month ranges from $20 to $50. However, the prices may vary depending on where you purchase them.

Most traditional drugstores and health clinics stock birth control pills, and some insurance plans cover the cost of birth control pills, making them even more affordable.

The Availability of Birth Control Pills

Access to birth control pills has been made accessible to women worldwide, with most countries launching family planning programs.

In the United States, birth control pills are available over the counter if one has a prescription and can be purchased at local drugstores, health clinics, and online pharmacies. This makes it easier for women to access this affordable medication and take the necessary preventative measures to avoid ovarian cancer.

What are the Side Effects of Birth Control Pills?

Like every medication, birth control pills come with potential side effects. The most common side effects of birth control pills include:.

Nausea
Weight gain
Breast tenderness
Headaches
Irregular bleeding
Mood changes

However, most of these side effects are temporary, and they tend to disappear within a few months.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a silent killer that affects women around the world. However, there is a solution to the problem. Women can prevent ovarian cancer by taking affordable medication like birth control pills.

Not only are birth control pills inexpensive, but they are widely available and accessible to women. It is essential to consult with a healthcare provider to determine if birth control pills are right for you and to receive a prescription for the correct dosage.