Accounting for 3 percent of all cancers in women, ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer among women, reports the American Cancer Society. It also estimated that more than 22,000 new cases of ovarian cancer will be diagnosed this year just in the United States alone.
Approximately one in 57 women will develop ovarian cancer, states the National Cancer Institute. Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor located on the ovaries. There are several types of ovarian cancer, but the most common type is epithelial carcinoma, cancer that begins on the surface of the ovary. Both germ cell tumors and stromal tumors are rare.
Although there is nothing that can predetermine who will develop ovarian cancer, there are several risk factors such as a family history, age (greater risk if over the age of 50), never having children, personal history of breast or colon cancer, fertility drugs, talc and hormone replacement therapy.
Recent reports have shown that breastfeeding, taking birth control pills, tubal ligation or those who have had their uterus and cervix removed may help prevent ovarian cancer.
Symptoms
Many times there are no ovarian cancer symptoms. However, the following is a list of symptoms that may appear.
- General abdominal discomfort and/or pain (gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, cramps)
- Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination
- Loss of appetite
- Feeling of fullness even after a light meal
- Weight gain or loss with no known reason
- Abnormal bleeding from the vagina
See your doctor if you have any of these symptoms. Regular pelvic exams (beginning at the onset of sexual activity or at the age of 20 if not sexually active) and Pap tests will help detect uterine cancer and enable the person to begin treatment in its early stages.
Treatment
Ovarian cancer treatment includes surgery, chemotherapy or radiation therapy. Talk to your doctor about any symptoms or for the right treatments for you.
For more information, visit the American Cancer Society or National Cancer Institute. |
