Ovarian cancer ranks fifth among all cancer-related deaths among women and is the most deadly of all tumours affecting the female reproductive system. It might be challenging for patients and physicians to recognise and diagnose this cancer. This can go on for a long period without showing any symptoms. To better protect yourself and your loved ones, this article will provide additional knowledge and understanding more about this condition, like some major ovarian cancer symptoms, its signs, causes, and how it can be treated.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer can happen to women and people assigned female at birth (AFAB). There are three kinds of cells in the ovaries, and depending on them, it can be determined, which is also of three kinds.
- Epithelial Tumour – This is the most common type and it starts from the cells outside of the ovary. Almost 90% of the malignant cancers of ovaries are this.
- Germ Cell Tumour – This happens in egg-producing cells; only about 2% of ovarian cancers are germ cell tumours.
- Stromal Tumour – This type happens in the cells producing hormones, and only 1% of the cases are related to stromal tumours. Most of these women are over 50 years old, and 1 in 20 cases is found in young girls.
Ovarian Cancer Symptoms
One should pay close attention to early signs of ovarian cancer, such as the ones listed below, to get themselves examined on time:
- Persistent bloating
- Pain in the lower stomach
- Pain in the pelvis
- Difficulty in eating or no appetite
- Having the need/urge to urinate often
If you experience any of the mentioned above ovarian cancer symptoms for an extended period, you must immediately speak with your doctor.
What Causes Ovarian Cancer?
The exact cause of this cancer is not known, however, several research studies indicate that regular ovulation may potentially harm the lining of the ovaries. This damage requires constant and frequent cell repair. The repeated inflammatory response in the lining is a risk factor and can be one of the leading ovarian cancer causes.
How to Diagnose Ovarian Cancer?
The first step in the diagnosis process is a physical checkup. Your doctor can also check any signs of fluid in your abdomen or an enlarged ovary. If they feel there are symptoms of ovarian cancer, they may refer you to a gynaecologist or oncologist for further evaluation to rule out any possibility.
Ovarian Cancer Treatment
The ovarian cancer treatment depends on the type, its stage, and if there are any special considerations. In most cases, doctors suggest surgery to remove the tumour. There can be additional treatment options also suggested based on the need, some of which are:
- Hormone therapy
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer
Listed below are some risk factors that may increase the chances of getting this cancer:
- Getting older
- Being overweight
- Never having full-term pregnancy or having children late
- Taking hormone therapy after menopause
- Having a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
- Having an Inherited cancer syndrome (Genetic syndrome)
- Undergoing fertility treatment
- If you had breast cancer in the past
- Smoking
Tips to Reduce the Risk Factors
As of right now, this malignancy cannot be prevented. Ten suggestions to lower your risk of acquiring it are listed below, which you may include in your everyday routine:
- Consuming a balanced diet
- Following menopause, refraining from hormone replacement therapy
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Consider having one or both of your ovaries removed during a prophylactic oophorectomy
- Preserving a healthy weight
- If the physician advises it, get a hysterectomy
- No utilisation of tobacco products or smoking
- If necessary, get a tubal ligation to lower your chances of getting pregnant
- For a while, use oral contraceptives
- Breastfeeding or having full-term pregnancy
These are tips that may lower the risk of getting ovarian cancer symptoms. However, it cannot be prevented entirely. Therefore, you must consult your doctor, discuss your health, and take their advice before following anything.
Conclusion
If not identified and treated promptly, ovarian cancer can be lethal. There are several types of this illness, and if detected early enough, therapy for this cancer is available. Even in their latter stages, certain types can be treated. The only thing to comprehend is its symptoms; if your body seems to be changing, contact your doctor immediately.
