The statistics
- Ovarian cancer accounts for four percent of all cancers in women.
- It is estimated that one woman in 70 will develop ovarian cancer in her lifetime.
- The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be 25,000 new cases of ovarian cancer each year.
- Each year about 14,000 women die of ovarian cancer.
- Ovarian cancer mainly affects older women in their early 60s.
What is ovarian cancer?
The ovaries are two almond-shaped organs found in a woman's pelvis, one nestled on each side. They produce estrogen and other female hormones and house the "eggs" or ovum, released each month that make pregnancy possible. Ovarian cancer is the presence of malignant cells in one or both ovaries.
What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer?
- family history of breast, colon or ovarian cancern.
- personal history of breast, colon or ovarian cancer
- personal history of infertility
- personal history of never being pregnant, or never using birth control pills
- risk rises as a woman ages
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a "quiet" disease. Its early symptoms are easily dismissed by women patient until the disease has progressed from an early, curable stage.A woman should watch for symptoms such as
- fatigue;
- unexplained weight loss;
- persistent gastrointestinal complaints like bloating after eating;
- vague abdominal pain or indigestion;
- pelvic pain or cramping;
- pain during intercourse; and/or
- changes in bowel or bladder function or patterns.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
- Usually, an ovarian mass – cancerous or not - is detected in a pelvic exam.
- A woman is then referred for an ultrasound or CAT scan to determine the size, location, and composition of the mass.
- A CA-125 blood test may be obtained, however this is not specific for ovarian cancer.
- If cancer is suspected, the woman will then undergo surgery to remove the mass to look for malignant cells as well as to obtain additional biopsies to determine the extent of the disease.
How is ovarian cancer treated?
Ovarian cancer is treated primarily by surgical resection and may be followed by chemotherapy (treatment with drugs). Treatment depends on the stage of the ovarian cancer. A woman's overall health is an important factor in treatment decisions.
What should I do if I am at risk for ovarian cancer or have some symptoms?
- Regular, annual gynecological exams are the most important method for early detection of ovarian cancer.
- A woman who is concerned about ovarian cancer should be examined by a gynecologist or gynecological oncologist (a Gynecologist that specializes in the treatment of malignancies of the female reproductive organs).
If you believe you are at risk for ovarian cancer, or any other cancer, discuss your concerns with your healthcare provider.
For additional online information, try the sites listed below:
http://www.oncolink.com
http://www.ovarian.org/
http://www.cancer.gov/cancer_information
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