Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian Cancer
As many as you guys may know, March is Women’s History Month! Hence why I would like to share with you guys some fun facts about ovarian cancer—a disease only females can get.
Description
Ovarian cancer is when abnormal cells multiply uncontrollably inside, close to, or on the outside layer of a woman’s ovaries. It forms malignant tumors that can affect the organs near the ovaries. In the case of metastasis, it spreads to other organs.
Symptoms
It is hard to detect since ovaries are deeper within the abdominal cavity but some signs are:
Bloating
Pelvic/abdominal pain
Trouble eating or feeling full easily
Need to urinate urgently or often
Screening Tests
Pelvic exam
Transnational sonography
CA-125 test
Treatment
Surgery by a gynecologic oncologist (most common)
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Complementary therapy: whole body approach
Clinical trials
Prognosis
When a woman is diagnosed and treated when the cancer is at its beginning stages, the 5-year survival rate is 90%. However, only ~20% of cases are found early due to lack of early detection tests and obscure symptoms. Those who have stage III or higher ovarian cancer can have a survival rate of 28%—in the worst scenario. General prognosis are hard as it is different for each individual.
Facts
1 in 78 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer.
It’s the fifth leading cause of death, in terms of cancer, for women 35 to 74 years old.
Sources
https://www.ovarian.org/index.php
- Phuong Tran
Officer Intern