Ovarian Cancer occurs when the growth of abnormal cancer cells in the ovary or fallopian tube multiplies. It is the eighth most prevalent cancer in the world and often goes undetected until it reaches an advanced stage due to the lack of early symptoms. Therefore, cancer can spread to the abdomen without causing any symptoms.
Symptoms, Causes and Stages of Ovarian Cancer
Symptoms of ovarian cancer often overlap with other diseases which makes it harder to diagnose at early stages.
- Pain or pressure in the pelvic area
- Abdominal or back pain
- Vaginal bleeding (post-menopause)
- Bloating
- Frequent urination
Causes
Age is one of the major risk factors for Ovarian cancer. Other risk factors include:
- Genetics: Family history of cancer and mutations of BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes.
- Cancer: History of breast cancer or previous radiotherapy
- Menstruation: Early onset of menstruation (before 13) or late menopause (post 55)
- Lifestyle: Obesity is associated with a higher risk
- Medication: Use of Hormonal contraceptives or Hormonal Replacement Therapy (HRT)
Stages
Stage 1: Cancer is confined to the ovary (or ovaries), or fallopian tubes.
Stage 2: Cancer is in one or both the ovary or fallopian tubes and has spread to the pelvis. 19% of ovarian cancers are found at stage 2.
Stage 3: Cancer is found in both ovaries and fallopian tubes and found in the other areas of the abdomen.
Stage 4: Cancer fluid has spread to distant organs such as the lungs and other parts of the body.
Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer
Diagnosis involves a range of screening and imaging tests. Here are some tests and scans that can help diagnose and evaluate the stage of the disease.
CA125 Test – This test measures the CA125 or Cancer Antigen 125, a type of tumour marker in the blood. High levels of tumour markers may indicate the presence of cancer. Additinally, it also helps monitor treatment effectiveness and detect cancer recurrence.
Pelvic Ultrasound: Pelvic Ultrasound is the initial diagnostic test performed to diagnose ovarian cancer because it identifies any abnormal growth or cysts in the ovaries.
CT Scan: A CT scan is used to visualize large tumours and determine if they have spread to other organs
PET Scan: Positron Emission Tomography (PET) scans are useful for assessing tumour recurrence in ovarian cancer. They can also detect small tumours that may not be visible on a CT scan.
Laparoscopy: Laparoscopy determines the stage of cancer. It also assists in treatment planning and helps guide the management of the disease.
Biopsy: A biopsy is a standard screening test to confirm the presence of cancerous cells. A tissue sample is examined under a microscope to determine if it is cancerous (malignant) or non-cancerous (benign).
Survival Rate & treatment for Ovarian Cancer
The survival rate for ovarian cancer varies depending on the stage of diagnosis. Approximately 78% of the patients survive 1 year after diagnosis. Besides, more than 60% live for at least 3 years after being diagnosed, and over 50% of patients with ovarian cancer live for at least 5 years after diagnosis. Likewise, Age also plays a major role, with younger patients having better survival rates.
Treatment for ovarian cancer is most effective when the cancer is detected at early stages. Treatment options include chemotherapy and surgery such as Total abdominal hysterectomy (removal of both ovaries and fallopian tubes) additionally, specific treatment plans depend on the distribution of disease.
How to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer?
Taking certain measures and avoiding certain risk prevents the cancer from reaching an advanced stage. Here are some of the ways by which you can lower the risk of ovarian cancer
- Oral contraceptives reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. Women who have used birth control pills for 5 or more years reduce the chance of getting ovarian cancer by 50% subsequently
- Surgery such as Tubal ligation, Hysterectomy
- Giving birth and breastfeeding
- Genetic testing and reviewing family history
How to identify ovarian cancer early?
- Pay close attention to your body.
- Recognize warning signs and symptoms.
- Take cancer screening test post menopause
These are some of the ways to reduce the risk. It’s equally important to consult your doctor for an accurate diagnosis & treatment plan. Since the symptoms can go unnoticed till they move to the later stages, it’s ideal that women post menopause take a regular Master Health Checkup or cancer screening. Aarthi scans and Labs have a cancer screening test which comprises 39 tests. Book an appointment to detect early.
