For every 100,000 women in the US, 10 new ovarian cancer cases were reported, and of those 10, six die because of the cancer. Ovarian cancer is relatively uncommon, so it is often diagnosed at a late stage. This is because the symptoms present, particularly at the early stages, are often not severe enough to be noticed. The sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better chances for survival.
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Why is it Important to Detect Ovarian Cancer Early?
Women usually ignore the early signs of ovarian cancer because many symptoms seem normal and mimic other common problems related to aging, weight gain, or something less serious. This is why ovarian cancer is so difficult to diagnose early: in fact, according to the American Cancer Society, only about 20% of ovarian cancers are found in early stages, but when it is, about 94% of patients live longer than 5 years after diagnosis. This is evidence that recognizing the early symptoms of ovarian cancer is important for saving the woman’s life.
What are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
Though ovarian cancer symptoms often appear subtle and easily mistaken for something else, it’s important to pay attention to how long the symptoms last, especially if your symptoms last more than two to three weeks.
Most common symptoms associated with ovarian cancer
1. Bloating
Almost every woman at some point in her life experiences bloating: a feeling of discomfort in the belly, feeling full, or generally tight. Though it may feel like it’s normal to feel bloated, persistent bloating lasting three weeks or more is not. Bloating that has a visible swelling in your stomach could also indicate ovarian cancer.
2. Difficulty Eating
Difficult eating includes a loss of appetite or having trouble eating. Along with loss of appetite, some may get full very quickly even with small meals.
3. Bladder Changes
Often, when women feel pain when urinating or have an urge to urinate, they think that it’s just a urinary tract infection. While this is usually the case, bladder changes or issues may also be a sign of ovarian cancer.
4. Pelvic or Abdominal Pain
Prolonged pain in the abdomen that lasts for one to three weeks may also be a warning sign of ovarian cancer.
Less common symptoms associated with ovarian cancer
Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have also reported other symptoms, however, though they are rarely used to detect and identify ovarian cancer:
- Fatigue
- Back Pain
- Weight Loss
- Constipation
- Menstrual Irregularities/Changes
- Indigestion
- Pain with Intercourse
The key factor in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer is to pay attention to the frequency and duration of the symptoms. If symptoms last more than two to three weeks, or if you’re taking over-the-counter medications and they don’t work, talk to a gynecologist or your primary doctor to ask about ovarian cancer.
Who is at Risk?
Factors that can increase your risk of ovarian cancer include:
- Age: Regardless of age, all women are at risk of developing ovarian cancer, however, ovarian cancer is most prevalent in women who are 55-64 years old. The risk of ovarian cancer increases as you age.
- Family History: Women who have had a blood related member including grandmother, mother, daughter, sister, with ovarian cancer are at higher risk.
- Inherited Genes: A small percentage of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have a hereditary tendency that is caused by gene changes you inherit from your parents.
- Overweight or Obesity: Being overweight or obese can increase the risk of ovarian cancer
- Personal History of Cancer: Women who have had cancer of the breast, uterus, colon, or rectum have a higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Factors that can decrease your risk of ovarian cancer include:
- Pregnancy: Studies have shown that women who are pregnant and give birth are at lower risk for ovarian cancer. During pregnancy, women stop ovulating, and the less you ovulate, the less exposure to estrogen and abnormal cells that could potentially become cancer.
- Breast Feeding: Breastfeeding can help lower your ovarian cancer risk by preventing ovulation.
- Use of Oral Contraceptives: Taking birth control helps reduce the risk of ovarian cancer, though these medications do have risks. Ask your doctor if birth control is right for you.
How is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed or Tested?
Unfortunately, there are no screening tests to detect ovarian cancer. Instead, if you experience any of these symptoms or are at risk of developing ovarian cancer, your doctor may have you do several procedures and tests:
- Physical Examinations – including pelvic exams
- Imaging Test – ultrasound and CT scans
- Blood Test – may include testing the function of the organ
- Biopsy/Surgery – takes a sample of the ovary and have it tested for signs of cancer
- Genetic Testing – test a sample of blood to determine any gene changes
If you chronically experience any of these symptoms or if you are at risk of developing ovarian cancer, it is critical to let your healthcare provider know as soon as possible. As a patient, you have the right to choose which pathology lab the biopsy is sent to. The South Bend Medical Foundation is an independent pathology lab committed to helping people live healthy lives.
