As we approach Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day on Sept. 5, it’s vital to shine a spotlight on this often-overlooked disease. Ovarian cancer, a malignancy originating in the ovaries, is the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among women. Early detection and awareness are crucial for improving outcomes and survival rates.
“While a diagnosis of ovarian cancer can be overwhelming, at Riverwood we offer compassionate care and the first line of diagnosis, evaluation and referral for treatment of ovarian cancer,” explains Dr. Jennifer Tessmer-Tuck, obstetrician and gynecologist at Riverwood. “If surgery is needed, we refer patients to a special gynecologic oncologist in the Twin Cities. We can do follow-up visits after surgery and the Riverwood oncology team can oversee chemotherapy at our infusion center as needed.”
She adds, “Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day serves as a reminder of the importance of early detection, understanding risk factors, and exploring treatment options. By increasing awareness and educating ourselves and others about ovarian cancer, we can improve early diagnosis, enhance treatment outcomes, and ultimately save lives.”
Here’s a comprehensive overview to help spread awareness and educate the public about ovarian cancer.
SYMPTOMS
Ovarian cancer often presents with vague symptoms, which can make early detection challenging. Symptoms to watch for include:
- Persistent discomfort in the abdomen or pelvic pain can be an early sign.
- Bloating is a feeling of fullness or swelling in the abdomen.
- Be alert to a decrease in appetite or feeling unusually full after eating small amounts.
- Another symptom is an increased need to urinate or experiencing urgency more often than usual.
- Watch for changes in bowel habits, including constipation or diarrhea.
While these symptoms can be caused by a variety of conditions, if they persist or worsen, it’s important to consult a health care provider.
RISK FACTORS
Certain factors can increase the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer, although the disease can affect anyone. Key risk factors include:
- The risk increases with age, particularly after menopause.
- A family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer can elevate risk. Inherited genetic mutations, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, also play a significant role.
- Women with BRCA1, BRCA2, or other gene mutations associated with breast and ovarian cancer have a higher risk.
- Women who have never been pregnant or who had their first child after age 30 may be at increased risk.
EARLY SCREENING & TESTING
Diagnosing ovarian cancer involves several steps. Health care providers may use a combination of:
- Pelvic exam: A physical examination to check for abnormal masses or changes in the pelvic area.
- Imaging tests: Ultrasound, CT scans, or MRIs can help visualize the ovaries and detect abnormalities.
- Blood tests: The CA-125 test measures the level of a protein that may be elevated in women with ovarian cancer, though it is not a definitive diagnostic tool on its own.
TREATMENT
Treatment for ovarian cancer typically involves a combination of therapies, tailored to the individual’s specific situation, including:
- The primary treatment for ovarian cancer is often surgical, aiming to remove as much of the tumor as possible. This may involve removing both ovaries and tubes and a total hysterectomy.
- Chemotherapy uses drugs to kill cancer cells or stop them from growing. It is commonly used after surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells.
- Radiation therapy is less commonly used for ovarian cancer but may be employed in certain cases to target specific areas.
SUPPORT & RESOURCES
Seek support from health care professionals, support groups, and organizations dedicated to ovarian cancer. Resources such as the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA) and the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) offer valuable information, support services, and advocacy efforts to assist patients and families.