In the US, ovarian cancer is the fourth major cause of death from cancer for women and affects 1 in 57 women. This can be successfully treated if it is diagnosed early. However, only about 24% of ovarian cancer cases are detected early on, resulting in lower survival rates. Hence, it is highly essential for women to watch for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.
According to a statement from the American Cancer Society and other organizations during the summer, 2007, early symptoms of ovarian cancer can include sudden bloating, gas, or a sensation of fullness; fatigue, menstrual irregularities, abdominal or pelvic pain, urgent and/or frequent urination and changes in eating patterns such as difficulty eating or feeling full too quickly.
All women should monitor the early symptoms of ovarian cancer in order to have ovarian cancer diagnosed as early as possible, if at risk. If these symptoms last for more than two to three weeks, women should seek advice from their doctor. Although symptoms such as menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain don’t always point to ovarian cancer, being aware of the early symptoms of ovarian cancer can help save lives. Keep in mind there is currently no reliable medical screening exam for the early detection of ovarian cancer.
Any early symptoms of ovarian cancer should be followed up with a visit with your doctor, who may then also recommend a bimanual pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, and Ca125 blood test. Some risk factors for ovarian cancer include having the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations, not having used birth control pills, never having been pregnant, or being diagnosed with breast cancer before 50 years of age.
Some women are at more risk of developing ovarian cancer than others. Women who are Ashkenazi Jews, are over the age of 50, have 2 or more relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer, have been exposed to many fertility drugs are at higher risk. Regular monitoring for early symptoms of ovarian cancer are doubly important for these women.
Having regular gynecological check-ups are important for any woman’s health. Immediate medical attention should be sought for symptoms that are present for greater than a few weeks. It is also important to realize that what may seem to be early symptoms of ovarian cancer may be something else entirely. These symptoms can also indicate ovarian cysts, irritable bowel syndrome, or another condition that a medical examination would be able to detect.
Recognizing the early symptoms of ovarian cancer helps women to stop the progression of this deadly disease. Both women and their doctors should be aware of the risks of ovarian cancer. More than 6% of all cancer deaths in women are attributed to ovarian cancer.
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