Abstract
Ovarian cancer is one of the most fatal gynecological cancers worldwide. Known as a “silent killer,” it progresses with subtle symptoms that are often ignored or misinterpreted. Despite advancements in medical science, late diagnosis remains a major cause of death among affected women. This article explores ovarian cancer through key questions and evidence-based answers—covering its causes, risk factors, symptoms, diagnosis, treatment, and preventive strategies—to raise awareness and promote early detection.
1. What Is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries—the small organs responsible for producing eggs and female hormones like estrogen and progesterone.
It is called a silent killer because most women do not notice any symptoms until the disease has already spread.
Globally, ovarian cancer ranks as the eighth most common cancer among women and the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths (World Health Organization, 2024).
2. Why Is Ovarian Cancer So Dangerous?
Its danger lies in its silence.
In early stages, symptoms such as bloating or mild abdominal pain appear harmless and are often confused with digestive problems. By the time accurate diagnosis is made, the disease is usually in stage III or IV, when treatment becomes complex and survival chances drop dramatically.
3. What Causes Ovarian Cancer?
The exact cause remains unclear, but several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing the disease:
Genetic mutations: Especially BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene defects.
Family history: Women whose close relatives had ovarian or breast cancer face higher risk.
Age: Most common in women aged 50 or above.
Reproductive factors: Women who never became pregnant or had late menopause are more vulnerable.
Hormonal exposure: Long-term estrogen therapy may increase risk.
Lifestyle influences: Obesity, smoking, and poor diet can contribute to development.
4. What Are the Common Symptoms?
Ovarian cancer often has vague, persistent symptoms. Typical signs include:
Abdominal or pelvic pain
Frequent urination
Constant bloating or swelling
Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
Fatigue and unexplained weight loss
If these symptoms last more than two weeks, medical consultation is strongly recommended.
5. How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?
There is no single reliable test for early detection. Doctors typically use a combination of methods:
Pelvic examination to check for lumps or swelling.
Transvaginal ultrasound to visualize ovaries and surrounding tissues.
CA-125 blood test to detect elevated tumor markers.
CT or MRI scans to determine tumor spread.
Biopsy or surgical exploration for final confirmation.
6. What Are the Main Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the stage and severity of the cancer:
1. Surgery: Removal of one or both ovaries, fallopian tubes, and sometimes the uterus.
2. Chemotherapy: Platinum-based drugs like carboplatin and paclitaxel are standard.
3. Targeted therapy: PARP inhibitors benefit women with BRCA gene mutations.
4. Immunotherapy: Boosts the body’s immune system to attack cancer cells.
5. Radiation therapy: Used in specific cases where surgery isn’t feasible.
7. Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?
Although total prevention is impossible, certain habits and medical measures reduce risk:
Long-term use of birth control pills (5+ years) lowers risk significantly.
Maintaining a healthy weight and avoiding smoking.
Genetic testing and counseling for high-risk women.
Prophylactic surgery for those carrying BRCA mutations.
Regular gynecological checkups to detect early changes.
8. What Is the Survival Rate?
When detected early, ovarian cancer has a 90% five-year survival rate.
However, late-stage detection drops that rate below 30%, showing how crucial awareness and early diagnosis are.
9. How Does Awareness Help?
Awareness empowers women to identify early symptoms, seek medical advice, and encourage others to do the same.
Community-based education, digital campaigns, and regular health screenings can significantly reduce mortality rates by promoting timely action.
10. Conclusion
Ovarian cancer continues to be a global health burden, especially in developing countries where awareness and screening are limited.
Women must be encouraged to listen to their bodies, act on persistent symptoms, and undergo regular checkups.
With increased awareness, improved diagnostic techniques, and advanced therapies, survival rates can be enhanced, giving hope to millions worldwide.
References (Vancouver Style)
1. World Health Organization (WHO). Cancer Fact Sheet, 2024.
2. American Cancer Society. Ovarian Cancer—Causes, Risk Factors, and Prevention.
3. National Cancer Institute. Ovarian Cancer Treatment (PDQ®)—Patient Version.
4. Torre LA, Trabert B, et al. Global Cancer Statistics 2024. CA Cancer J Clin.
