Ovarian cancer is termed as a silent killer, and not without a reason, as normally, it does not show a clear sign of presence in its initial stages. The cancer disease in this case starts in the ovaries which are considered the female reproductive system and they produce eggs and female hormone.
Although ovarian cancer causes only 3 percent of all cancer cases among females, it is classified as one of the deadliest gynecological tumor, which is mostly caused by late diagnosis. With early awareness and detection of symptoms, there may be high possibilities of successful treatment.
This blog is going to talk about the typical symptoms, potential causes, risk factors, and why it is so important to check-in with a specialist on time.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
In the ovary, ovarian cancer arises when normal cells begin to develop abnormally and then out of control. If left untouched, the tumour flees to other parts of the body where it undergoes a process known as metastasis.
Several types of ovarian cancer occur, including: Epithelial Tumors – These originate from the external uterine membrane and comprise the majority. Germ cell tumours – Arise from the cells which produce eggs (commonly found in younger women). Sarcomas – These malignant tumors grow in connective tissues or supporting structures of organs. They can also develop in blood vessels.
Key Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
The main problem with ovarian cancer is that the early symptoms are often general and easily mistakable for gastrointestinal discomfort or urinary problems. But if these symptoms are persistent and very frequent -- more than 12 times a month -- feasibility is the title of this paper.
Main Symptoms:
- Persistent bloating or swelling of the abdomen
- Pain in the pelvis or the abdomen
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Problems with urinating frequently or urgently.
- Fatigue, or unexplained tiredness
- Changes in your bowel habits such as constipation and diarrhea
- Pain in the back
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pain During sex
- Irregular menstrual cycles.
These symptoms can resemble those of other far less serious conditions, which is also why so many women don't seek immediate care about them.
What is the Causes of Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer has its causes that are not clearly understood. Nonetheless, scientists are of the opinion that there is an interaction of genetic, hormonal, and environmental influences.
The following are the top causes which are most researched and suspected:
1. Genetic Mutations
The inherited mutations in certain genes are related in about 1015 of ovarian cancer cases and include:
- BRCA1 and BRCA2: also linked with breast cancer.
- Lynch Syndrome: a hereditary disease which predisposes the person to different cancers, among them ovarian cancer.
The lifetime chances of getting ovarian cancer of women who have these gene mutations are highly increased.
2. Age and Menopause
They recommend that most percentages of ovarian cancer are discovered with the help of women who are above the age of 50 and more likely after menopause. The older somebody is, the more risky the situation will become.
3. Reproductive History
Those women who have been pregnant or have not got children in later life may be at increased risk.
4. Hormone Therapy
Slightly (on a long-term basis) the risk may be enhanced by the use of estrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT).
5. Endometriosis
Endometriosis is a painful condition in which a tissue that looks like the lining inside the uterus appears outside the uterus at other places, predisposing ovarian cancer especially the types of cancer that are ovarian like.
6. Obesity
The risks are larger in the case of obese women and even obesity could influence the survival results.
7. Lifestyle and Environmental Factors
Although the study is still underway, some loosely-based linkages have been made between exposure to talcum powder on the genitals and a marginal increment of the chances of getting ovarian cancer.
Who is in the Danger of Ovarian Cancer?
Early detection and screening can be assisted by knowledge about the risk factors. Women who are at advanced risk are:
- Individuals, who have a history of ovarian, breast or colorectal cancer in the family.
- Pre-disposed women with defective genes such as BRCA1/BRCA2
- The age of over 50 and, in especially, post-menopause
- Women who have gone through fertility treatments (but the data is not decisive)
- Smoking and physical inactivity
In some cases, women suffering polycyclic ovary syndrome (PCOS),
So, How is Ovarian Cancer diagnosed?
Since there is no definite screening test of ovarian cancer, it is even more important to be aware of the symptoms. Nonetheless, it may be diagnosed by:
- Pelvic examination
- Transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) as a method of examination to seek masses/tumors
- CA-125 blood test - A high level of CA-125 may be a sign of cancer, but it is not a good measure of the condition
- CT scan, MRI or PET scan
- Biopsy - Mostly done later on assessment following the surgery in determining the type and stage
Treatment Options For Ovarian Cancer
It depends on the phase, sort, spread, and the person's overall health conditions.
Main therapy alternatives comprise:
Medical procedures
Taking out either one or both of the ovaries, fallopian tubes, uterus, nearby lymph nodes and affected tissue.
Chemotherapy
Commonly used after surgical The purpose is to kill off any malignant cells that remain uneasily so, but sometimes before surgery (neoadjuvant chemo) as an aid in shrinking up large tumors.
Targeted therapy
Medicines that obstruct cancer-specific proteins and decelerate tumour growth;p Along with PARP inhibitors for BRCA mutation-positive cases.
Immunotherapy
Still in the experimental stage for ovarian cancer, but ongoing trials look promising.
Hormone Therapy
For certain low-grade tumours it is used to block oestrogen, the fuel behind some of these cancers.
Living With and After Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer survivors face challenges, including early menopause, infertility, fatigue and psychological strain. An interdisciplinary team of experts,that may include oncologists, nutritionists and fertility experts, all must be involved in recovery.
It is necessary to continue monitoring its return. Many women with the right care and a strong support system are able to live lives that are fulfilling and healthy even after treatment.
Prevention and Early Detection Advice
Although ovarian cancer cannot be prevented all the time, there are measures that you can take to minimize the risk:
Learn your family history and think about genetic counseling, should you need it
Oral contraceptives (birth control pills) are known to reduce risk
Keep a normal weight and an active life style
Unneeded hormone therapy avoidable hormone/therapy
Now, in case you are faced with high risk, discuss with your doctor for proper help.
Rely on Dr. Pooja Babbar to take charge of expert cancer care
Understanding that you are diagnosed with something like ovarian cancer is an overwhelming situation, yet you are not left alone. With psychological support, the proper levels of guidance and competence, nothing is ever hopeless.
Dr. Pooja Babbar is one of the most best medical oncologists in Gurgaon who has assisted thousands of women cope with the problem of cancer with dignity and courage. Having worked as an oncologist with more than a one-decades-long experience in treating the most severe cases of cancer, she has become a specialist who treats her patients first, follows sophisticated treatment plans, and takes good care of those she treats.
If you need a new diagnosis, custom therapy, or want to follow up, Dr. Babbar and her team will be with you every step of the way. Her aim is not to treat cancer but to reinstate life, health and confidence to each and every patient she comes across.
Because, when you have the right doctor, recovery is not only possible, but it is formidable.
