Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the tiny organs in a female reproductive system where eggs are produced.

This cancer often starts with abnormal cell growth in the ovaries or fallopian tubes, which then proliferates uncontrollably.

Symptoms and Causes

Ovarian cancer may not present apparent symptoms until it has progressed, making early detection difficult.

Common symptoms include:

• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Bloating
• Changes in eating habits, such as feeling full quickly or experiencing a loss of appetite.
• Vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding, mainly if it occurs after menopause
• Diarrhoea or constipation
• An increase in abdominal size
• Frequent urination

These symptoms can be subtle and often overlap with other conditions, so it’s crucial to consult a doctor if they arise.

Risk factors for ovarian cancer include:

• Being over 60 years of age
• Obesity
• A family history of ovarian cancer or inherited gene mutations, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
• Never having been pregnant or having children later in life
• Endometriosis

Diagnosis and Testing

Diagnosing ovarian cancer can be complex due to the lack of practical screening tests for early detection.

If ovarian cancer is diagnosed, your doctor will conduct a pelvic exam to look for any abnormal growths or enlarged organs.

They may also recommend various tests:

• Imaging Tests: These include pelvic ultrasound, MRI (magnetic resonance imaging), CT scan (computed tomography), and PET scan (positron emission tomography) to visualize the ovaries and surrounding areas.
• Blood Tests: If CA-125 is elevated, it can indicate cancer, though it can also be high in non-cancerous conditions.
• Surgical Evaluation: Ovarian cancer can be diagnosed and assessed during surgery, where abnormal growths may be removed and analysed.
• Laparoscopy: This procedure involves inserting a thin camera through a small incision to inspect the ovaries and, if necessary, perform biopsies or remove tumors.

There are four stages in ovarian cancer with Stage I being the least severe and Stage IV the most advanced.

Staging helps guide treatment options, ranging from localized to extensive cancer spread.

Treatment and Management

Treatment seeks to eliminate as much cancer as possible and may include:

• Surgery: Often involves removing the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and any other affected organs. This can be done through laparoscopy or a more extensive open procedure.
• Chemotherapy: Administered before or after surgery to target and kill cancer cells. It can be given intravenously or orally.
• Targeted Therapy: Utilizes medications specifically designed to target and destroy cancer cells.
• Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones that some cancers use to grow.
• Radiation Therapy: Rarely used for ovarian cancer.

Take charge of your health—ask your doctor about genetic testing if ovarian cancer runs in your family