Ovarian cancer, a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, is the fifth most common cancer among women.

It is often referred to as the “silent killer” because symptoms are difficult to detect, and it usually goes unnoticed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. This is why ovarian cancer detection is so elusive, and it’s important for women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and to undergo regular screening.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

While anyone can be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, certain factors can increase your risk. These include:.

A family history of ovarian cancer
Personal history of breast, uterine, or colon cancer
Endometriosis
Age over 50
Never giving birth or having trouble getting pregnant
Obesity
Exposure to estrogen through hormone replacement therapy or fertility drugs

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

As mentioned, ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” because symptoms are difficult to detect and can be mistaken for other conditions. However, some symptoms are more common among women with ovarian cancer. These include:.

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary symptoms, such as urgency or frequency
Changes in bowel habits
Weight loss

It’s important to note that these symptoms can be caused by a range of conditions, and not all women with ovarian cancer will experience them.

However, if you experience any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s important to speak with your doctor.

Ovarian Cancer Screening

Screening for ovarian cancer involves a physical exam, including a pelvic exam, as well as imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI.

However, routine screening is not recommended for women who do not have any symptoms or who are not at an increased risk of ovarian cancer. This is because screening tests are not always accurate, and false-positive results can lead to unnecessary surgeries and other treatments.

For women who are at an increased risk of ovarian cancer due to their family history or genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, more frequent screening may be recommended.

In some cases, prophylactic surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes may also be recommended as a preventative measure.

Ovarian Cancer Diagnosis

If ovarian cancer is suspected, your doctor will likely perform a series of tests to confirm the diagnosis. These tests may include:.

A pelvic exam to feel for lumps or changes in the ovaries
A blood test to check for elevated levels of certain proteins, such as CA-125
Imaging tests, such as an ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI
A biopsy, where a small sample of tissue from the ovary is removed and examined under a microscope

Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

Treatment for ovarian cancer will depend on the stage of the cancer, as well as other factors such as your overall health and personal preferences. Treatment options may include:.

Surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible
Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells
Radiation therapy to destroy cancer cells

If ovarian cancer is caught in its early stages, when it is still confined to the ovaries, the five-year survival rate is around 92%. However, if the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, the survival rate drops to around 30%.

This is why early detection is so crucial for improving outcomes for women with ovarian cancer.

Prevention of Ovarian Cancer

While there is no surefire way to prevent ovarian cancer, there are steps that women can take to lower their risk. These include:.

Using birth control pills
Having multiple children
Breastfeeding
Eating a healthy diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
Maintaining a healthy weight
Quitting smoking

Women who are at an increased risk of ovarian cancer may also consider prophylactic surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes.

The Bottom Line

Ovarian cancer detection can be elusive, but being aware of the risk factors and symptoms of ovarian cancer, as well as undergoing regular screening if recommended, can help with early detection.

If ovarian cancer is diagnosed, treatment options are available, and many women are able to beat the disease with early detection and treatment.