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