Ovarian Cancer: Symptoms, Diagnosis, Treatment, and Prevention
Ovarian Cancer
Reviewed by Kamran Mahmood, MD, MPH, Associate Professor of Medicine, Duke University Medical Center, Board Certified in Pulmonology & Critical Care.
Ovarian cancer is a serious condition that often goes unnoticed until it reaches advanced stages due to its subtle symptoms. Known as a "silent killer," it begins in the ovaries—key reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones. Early recognition of persistent symptoms like abdominal bloating or pelvic pain can lead to earlier diagnosis and improved outcomes. Understanding the signs, risk factors, and treatment options is essential for women’s health.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Abdominal bloating or swelling.
Pelvic pain or discomfort.
Feeling full quickly or difficulty eating.
Frequent urination or an urgent need to urinate.
Unexplained fatigue or weight loss.
Diagnosis
Pelvic Examination
Checks for abnormalities in the reproductive organs.
Imaging Test
Ultrasounds, CT scans, or MRIs help visualize the ovaries and detect masses.
Blood Tests
CA-125, a tumor marker, is often elevated in ovarian cancer cases.
Biopsy
Confirms the presence and type of cancer through tissue sampling.
Treatment
Surgery
Cytoreductive Surgery: Removes as much of the tumor as possible.
Hysterectomy and removal of ovaries or fallopian tubes if cancer has spread.
Chemotherapy
Administered after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
Targeted Therapy
Drugs like PARP inhibitors target specific cancer-related mutations.
Hormonal Therapy
May be used in specific subtypes of ovarian cancer.
Screening
No effective standard screening exists for ovarian cancer.
High-risk individuals (e.g., those with BRCA1/BRCA2 gene mutations or a family history) may benefit from regular pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests.
Prevention
Genetic Testing
Women with a family history of ovarian cancer should consider BRCA gene testing.
Oral Contraceptives
Long-term use of birth control pills has been linked to reduced ovarian cancer risk.
Prophylactic Surgery
Removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes may be considered for high-risk women.
Healthy Lifestyle
A balanced diet, regular exercise, and avoiding smoking may help reduce risk.
Raising awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and encouraging early evaluation for persistent symptoms can save lives, especially as early detection significantly improves survival rates.
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