Ovarian cancer is a deadly disease that claims thousands of lives every year. According to the American Cancer Society, about 21,750 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2020 leading to about 13,940 deaths.

It is the fifth leading cause of cancer death in women, and it is also difficult to detect in its early stages.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells develop in the ovaries, the reproductive glands that produce eggs. These cells grow uncontrollably, forming malignant tumors that can spread to nearby tissues and organs.

In most cases, ovarian cancer develops in women over 50, and it is rare in women under 40. The risk of ovarian cancer is also higher in women who have a family history of the disease.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because it can develop without any noticeable symptoms. However, some women may experience the following symptoms:.

Abdominal swelling or bloating
Pelvic pain or pressure
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation and diarrhea
Increased urinary urgency or frequency
Unexplained weight loss or gain
Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge

If these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer can improve outcomes.

Why is ovarian cancer difficult to detect?

Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect in its early stages because the symptoms are often vague and can be attributed to other conditions. For example, abdominal swelling and bloating can be mistaken for weight gain or digestive problems.

Additionally, there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer.

The two most commonly used tests for ovarian cancer are the transvaginal ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test. However, neither of these tests is accurate enough to be used for routine screening.

The transvaginal ultrasound can detect ovarian masses, but it cannot distinguish between benign and malignant tumors. The CA-125 blood test measures a protein that is often elevated in women with ovarian cancer, but it can also be elevated in women with other conditions, such as endometriosis, fibroids, and pregnancy.

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?

Several factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer:.

Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, with most cases occurring in women over 50.
Family history: Women who have a mother, sister, or daughter with ovarian cancer have a higher risk of developing the disease. Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes also increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
Personal history: Women who have had breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Reproductive history: Women who have never had children or who had their first child after age 35 have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Hormone therapy: Women who have taken hormone therapy after menopause for more than five years have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

How is ovarian cancer treated?

The treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and type of the disease, as well as the patient’s overall health and preferences. The most common treatments for ovarian cancer are:.

Surgery: Surgery is the primary treatment for ovarian cancer. The extent of the surgery depends on the stage and type of cancer, but it usually involves removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and nearby lymph nodes.
Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is a drug treatment that targets cancer cells. It is often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells or to shrink tumors before surgery.
Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high-energy radiation to kill cancer cells. It is rarely used for ovarian cancer, but it may be used in certain situations.

What is the new warning about ovarian cancer?

A group of experts recently issued a new warning about ovarian cancer, stating that many women with the disease are not receiving proper care.

The warning comes from the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance and is based on a survey of more than 3,000 women with ovarian cancer and 800 caregivers.

The survey found that many women with ovarian cancer were not receiving appropriate care, including delayed diagnosis, inadequate treatment, and poor communication with healthcare providers.

In addition, many women reported feeling isolated and unsupported during their treatment and recovery.

The experts behind the warning called for improved access to healthcare, better communication between healthcare providers and patients, and increased funding for research and education about ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a serious disease that claims many lives every year.

While there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, women can reduce their risk of the disease by maintaining a healthy lifestyle, getting regular pelvic exams, and knowing their family history. If you experience any symptoms of ovarian cancer, it is important to see a doctor for an evaluation. Early detection and treatment of ovarian cancer can improve outcomes.