Let's start with cancer itself. Cancer is defined as a disease in which abnormal cells grow out of control. These cells typically begin to grow in a certain part of the body, where the type of cancer is defined. When this abnormal growth of cells begins in the ovaries, this is called ovarian cancer. The cells are able to spread to other parts of the body, especially when undetected and untreated.
Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer
As with any disease and any other type of cancer, there is no guarantee on who can and will develop ovarian cancer. However, there are certain factors, some which you can change and others that are genetic, that can increase a person's chances which include the following:
- Middle-aged or older
- Close family member who has had ovarian cancer
- Genetic mutation called BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Have had breast, uterine or colorectal cancer
- Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish background
- Endometriosis
- Have never given birth or have struggled with fertility
- Being overweight
- Use of hormone replacement therapy
- Smoking
- Diabetes
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Oftentimes, women do not immediately recognize any symptoms related to ovarian cancer. With time, there are certain things a woman may notice that could signal a problem. These signs and symptoms include:
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding or discharge
- Persistent bloating
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic region
- Abdominal or back pain
- Feeling full too quickly or difficulty eating
- Change in urinary habits such as more frequent or more urgent urination
- Extreme fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss
Any of these symptoms that are out of the ordinary should be taken seriously.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
Without symptoms, there are no quick and easy tests for ovarian cancer. If you are experiencing symptoms, some of the diagnostic tests that can be performed include a rectovaginal exam, a transvaginal ultrasound or a CA-125 blood test. These tests and others will help your doctor to rule out or diagnose cancer.
Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Treatment for your ovarian cancer often involves multiple options for best results. Surgery may be performed to remove cancerous tissue or, if severe or warranted, the ovaries completely. Chemotherapy is another treatment option which uses special medications that shrink or kill the cancerous cells.
Stages and Prognosis
Cancer is diagnosed using a staging and grading scale to determine the severity of the disease. The stages of ovarian cancer range from Stage I where the cancer is localized and has not spread to Stage IV where the cancerous cells have spread outside of the abdomen and pelvic area.
Grades are used to help predict how the cancer will behave, including growth and spread. These grades include Grade 1 where the cells resemble normal cells and are unlikely to recur and Grades 2 and 3 where the cells are dramatically different than normal cells and have more likelihood of spreading and recurring.
These factors help your doctor to find the best treatment options for your individual diagnosis and have a large impact on your prognosis.
Disclaimer: This article is for informational purposes only and is not intended to be a substitute for professional consultation or advice related to your health or finances. No reference to an identifiable individual or company is intended as an endorsement thereof. Some or all of this article may have been generated using artificial intelligence, and it may contain certain inaccuracies or unreliable information. Readers should not rely on this article for information and should consult with professionals for personal advice.
