World Ovarian Cancer Day, celebrated on May 8 each year, is dedicated to raising awareness about ovarian cancer, its symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection and treatment.
Dr. Vandana Jain, Senior Consultant and Head of Gynae I Unit – Oncology, Rajiv Gandhi Cancer Institute and Research Centre, Delhi, shares common symptoms of ovarian cancer that should not be ignored
While all cancers carry a risk of recurrence, ovarian cancer stands out as being particularly lethal, with a remarkably high recurrence rate of 70 to 80% within 2 to 3 years. This increased recurrence is often attributed to late-stage diagnoses, where symptoms only manifest once the disease has progressed to stage 3 or 4, making treatment more challenging.
Age is no barrier to ovarian cancer as it can affect people of all age groups. Even younger women, as young as 30, can be affected by this disease, highlighting the need for vigilance and awareness regardless of age.
Ovarian cancer encompasses several subtypes, including germ cell tumors and epithelial ovarian tumors, which can affect different age demographics. While germ cell tumors typically affect younger people and epithelial ovarian cancers are more common in people over 50, cases have been seen in people as young as 30, emphasizing the indiscriminate nature of the disease. .
Typical symptoms of ovarian cancer are usually nonspecific and include bloating, abdominal distension, gastritis, dyspepsia, frequency, constipation or diarrhea. These symptoms can be easily ignored or overlooked, even by health professionals who may attribute them to common conditions such as gastritis and prescribe antiseptics. Therefore, it is essential to remain alert and seek medical attention if these symptoms persist over time and significantly disrupt your daily life, as they could indicate underlying ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer is usually sporadic and only between 5 and 10% of cases have a familial component. It is essential not to assume that a lack of family history exempts you from the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Genetic testing can help people identify risk factors for developing ovarian cancer.
If a patient carries mutations in the BRCA genes or homologous recombination deficiency (HRD), it suggests a potential hereditary risk for family members. Testing other family members, such as sisters or daughters, especially if they are under 45 years of age, can allow for timely interventions. If these relatives test positive for the same mutations, prophylactic removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes after completing their family planning can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer in the future.
Regardless of family predisposition, it is vital to take symptoms seriously and seek medical evaluation immediately.
It is important to remember that ovarian cancer can be treated at all stages. Treatment options are available for every stage of the disease, although early detection significantly improves survival rates.
If diagnosed at stages 1 or 2, the chances of survival are considerably higher, as these stages allow for more effective treatment through surgery and, if necessary, chemotherapy.
However, as the disease progresses to stages 3 or 4, the chance of survival decreases. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer lacks effective screening tests such as CA-125, ultrasound, or CT scans for early detection. Therefore, understanding and recognizing its symptoms is essential for immediate medical intervention.
By staying informed and seeking medical help when symptoms arise, you can increase the chances of early detection and timely treatment, which could improve outcomes in the fight against ovarian cancer.
