The Facts about Ovarian Cancer
Know the Facts about Ovarian Cancer
It is estimated that by the end of this year, 21,750 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and 13,940 of those diagnoses could lead to death. In fact, it is the deadliest cancer among women, and the 5th leading cause of cancer-related deaths in women. Sadly, this is mainly due to the fact that often the disease had significantly advanced prior to diagnosis due to the lack of symptoms in the early stages. While these statistics may seem grim, there are still a number of ways that women can prevent, detect, and treat the cancer.
Ovarian Cancer Prevention
Like many cancers, age and weight can play a big role in your chances in getting ovarian cancer. It is very rare in women younger than 40 and more than half of women diagnosed are over the age of 62 and after menopause. Obesity and poor diet and exercise choices can increase your chances of contracting many cancers and decreases your chances at survival. It is important to make healthy choices daily, no matter your age, to prevent cancers and diseases such as this.
There are other factors that can increase your chances of developing ovarian cancer, such as pregnancy later in life, hormone therapy after menopause, family genetics, in-vitro fertilization, and a history of breast. Since most of these risks are out of your control, the thing we encourage women to focus on most is early diagnosis. However, full-term pregnancies, breastfeeding and using hormonal contraceptives are some ways to lower risk.
Detection, Diagnosis, and Treatment
Discovering the cancer early significantly increasing the chances of a longer life and even survival. It is important to schedule regular women’s health exams, specifically pelvic exams, to detect any tumors or abnormalities in the ovaries. Pap and HPV tests are not effective tests for early detection.
While symptoms are rare and nearly nonexistent in early stages before spreading, if you notice symptoms such as bloating, pelvic/abdominal pain, trouble eating or feeling full quickly, an increase in urinary urgency or frequency, fatigue, pain during sex, constipation, menstrual changes, or swelling of the abdomen despite weight loss. If you have even the slightest suspicion that something is abnormal, you should consult with your OB/GYN, as they could also be symptoms of a number of other ovarian and reproductive diseases.
News of a cancer diagnosis can be devastating to women and their loved ones, but it is crucial to remain positive and trust in your healthcare providers. We are here to support you through the good and the bad, and believe all women have the power to overcome.
We solute the women around the world who have battled against ovarian cancer and marvel at your strength.
For more information please visit https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer.html
As always, get in touch with your healthcare provider with any questions and concerns.
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/about/key-statistics.html