Important Things About Ovarian Cancer That Every Woman Should Know

Ovarian cancer is one of the dealiest and rarest form of cancer that causes several deaths every year. Ths most common signs and symptoms include pelvic and abdominal pain, bloating, alongwith frequent urination. The survival rate of the ovarian cancer patients varies depending on their stage of cancer.  Knowing your family history is of utmost importance. If any of your close relatives had a history of ovarian, colorectal or breast cancer, then the risk of getting affected by cancer generally increases by almost ten percent. The major cause behind this is the mutations in BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes that make the woman more prone to ovarian cancer.

The risk increases with age and the number of times she ovulates during her entire life span. Similarly, if the woman does not have child during her entire life span,  or have had colon or breast cancer, then this could be one of the factors responsible for ovarian cancer. It is very crucial that a woman manages her weight, because the women who have extra pounds are eighty percent at a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer. Also, women who have been taking fertility drugs, or have undergone hormone replacement therapy after menopause are more likely to be linked with this disease.

The biggest problem associated with this cancer is that there are no screening tests that are absolutely reliable. Pap tests are not able to detect this cancer. The pelvic examinations, though include a check up of the ovaries, but still they are are not able to detect tumors in the initial stages. Even the transvaginal ultrasounds, blood tests that measure the level of CA-125 have not given accurate results. Therefore, you need to be extra cautious and must talk to your gynaecological oncologist. In case, you are diagnosed with ovarian cancer, you will need to undergo chemotherapy and surgery as well. Surgery may involve removal of both ovaries and may include fallopian tubes, cervix, uterus as well. It may also include the surrounding tissues in the abdomen and pelvis. It is always a good idea to refer gynecologic oncologists, as they are the best persons to judge the spread of cancer from one ovary to another. They are more updated on the correct areas and correct lymph nodes that need to be biopsied, and will guide the patients on further treatment. Though such treatments may have side effects like hair loss, tingling sensation in feet, fingers, occasional numbness, fatigue, etc., the patient will be able to continue with routine activties as well.

Alertness is vital, as in every twenty four minutes, one woman is diagnosed with the deadly ovarian cancer. It is often referred as the silent killer because it is detected at advanced stages, and often leads to death. However, if you notice some signs and symptoms that are consistent for some time, it is possible to diagnose the cancer earlier, as well as the survival rates increase by almost ninety percent. Thus, take a step ahead and update every woman at your workplace, neighborhood, family, friend, etc., about the knowledge of ovarian cancer and try to stay away from it.