Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the organs that produce eggs and hormones. It is often called a “silent killer” because symptoms may be vague until the disease is advanced. However, early detection can improve outcomes.
Causes & Risk Factors
- Genetic Mutations: Inherited mutations in BRCA1/BRCA2 genes or Lynch syndrome increase risk.
- Age: Most common in women over 50.
- Reproductive History:
- Never having been pregnant.
- Early menstruation (before 12) or late menopause (after 50).
- Family History: A close relative with ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer.
- Other Risks: Obesity, hormone replacement therapy (long-term use), endometriosis.
Symptoms
- Abdominal bloating or swelling.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain.
- Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating.
- Frequent urination or urgency.
- Unexplained weight loss, fatigue, or changes in bowel habits.
Prevention
- Genetic Counselling: For those with a family history of ovarian/breast cancer.
- Birth Control Pills: Long-term use may reduce risk.
- Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Linked to lower risk.
- Surgical Options: Prophylactic removal of ovaries/tubes (for high-risk individuals only).
- Healthy Lifestyle: Maintain a healthy weight and avoid smoking.
Screening
- Routine Screening: Unlike cervical cancer, there is no reliable screening test for average-risk individuals.
- High-Risk Patients:
- Regular transvaginal ultrasound and CA-125 blood tests (though not foolproof).
- Genetic testing for BRCA mutations or Lynch syndrome.
Diagnosis & Treatment
- Diagnosis:
- Pelvic Exam: To check for lumps or irregularities.
- Imaging: Ultrasound, CT, or MRI scans.
- Blood Tests: CA-125 (a tumour marker, though not definitive).
- Biopsy: Usually done during surgery to confirm cancer.
- Treatment Options:
- Surgery: Removal of ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, and nearby lymph nodes (debulking).
- Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery.
- Targeted Therapy: PARP inhibitors (e.g., Olaparib) for BRCA-mutated cancers.
- Immunotherapy: Emerging option for some cases.
Discuss fertility preservation before treatment if desired.
Frequently Asked Questions
Q:Is ovarian cancer linked to HPV?
A:No—unlike cervical cancer.
Q:Can a Pap test detect it?
A:No. Pap tests screen for cervical cancer only.
Q:What’s the survival rate?
A:Depends on stage:90% 5-year survival if caught early (Stage I).
Less than 30% for advanced stages (III/IV).
Q:Does it run in families?
A:10–15% of cases are hereditary.
Q:Can it recur?
A:Yes, recurrence is common; follow-up care is vital
eGynaecologist Advice:
- Symptoms of potential ovarian cancer are often subtle and easily confused with other conditions. You must consult a gynaecologist if you have persistent symptoms
- Symptom awareness is critical for early detection of ovarian cancer and better overall survival. You must consult a gynaecologist for investigations and potential early treatment.
- You should discuss fertility sparing treatment with your gynaecologist if you desire to achieve pregnancy.
- If you are considered high risk for developing ovarian cancer and have completed your family, you must consult gynaecologist for risk reducing surgery.
- Regular follow up checks after treatment with your gynaecologist are important to monitor your health and prevent complications of recurrence of cancer.
