8/26/2024
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Posted by Dr. Thomas Raskauskas, Fidelis Care Senior Medical Director
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the abnormal growth of cells in the ovary. It can spread throughout the body. It is the deadliest of gynecologic cancers. There are different types of ovarian cancer. The most common type of ovarian cancer is abnormal growth of the cells on the surface of the ovary, and is called epithelial ovarian cancer.
How common is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the second most common gynecologic cancer in the United States. It is estimated that in 2024, there will be 19,680 new cases of ovarian cancer, and 12,740 deaths from ovarian cancer.
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
There is no set of symptoms that are specific to ovarian cancer. Common symptoms include bloating, getting full quickly after eating, and bladder symptoms. Some people experience vaginal bleeding. If you experience these symptoms for two weeks or more, you should see your healthcare provider.
Is there a screening test for ovarian cancer?
Unfortunately, there are no screening tests to help detect ovarian cancer.
How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Because there are no specific symptoms that help to detect ovarian cancer, it is usually diagnosed when the cancer has already spread. On a physical exam, there may be masses felt in the pelvis. Healthcare providers can do imaging studies that may show growths on the ovaries or in the abdomen.
What are risk factors for ovarian cancer?
Your risk of getting ovarian cancer increases:
- With age, especially after middle age
- If your mother, sister, aunt, niece, or grandmother has/had ovarian cancer
- If you have a family or personal history of a genetic mutation called BRCA1 or BRCA2, or with Lynch Syndrome
- If you are Eastern European or Ashkenazi Jewish
- If you do not have children
- If you have endometriosis (cells from the lining of the uterus grow in other areas of the pelvis and abdomen)
How can I reduce the risk of getting ovarian cancer?
You may lower your risk of getting ovarian cancer by:
- Using birth control for 5 or more years
- Having surgery to remove your ovaries and/or fallopian tubes
- Having children
Some individuals choose to have their ovaries and or fallopian tubes removed to lower the risk of ovarian cancer, especially if they have relatives with ovarian cancer or genetic defects. This is also recommended for women with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations between ages 35 to 45, or when childbearing is complete. It may also be recommended for women with Lynch syndrome.
How is ovarian cancer treated?
Usually, treatment starts with surgery to find how far the cancer has spread, and to remove as much of the cancer as possible. It is then usually followed with chemotherapy.
Where can I learn more about ovarian cancer?
For more information, visit the American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists or the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention.