Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs. It is one of the most serious gynecologic cancers due to its often late-stage diagnosis. Many people ask, "What is ovarian cancer?" It is a malignancy that develops from abnormal cell growth in the ovaries and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
There are three main types of ovarian cancer:
Epithelial Ovarian Cancer - The most common type, originating from the outer layer of the ovary.
Germ Cell Ovarian Cancer - A rare type that starts in the egg-producing cells.
Stromal Cell Ovarian Cancer - Arises from the connective tissue cells that hold the ovary together and produce hormones.
Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer
Many individuals wonder, "What causes ovarian cancer?" While the exact cause is unknown, several risk factors increase the likelihood of developing it:
Family history of ovarian or breast cancer (Is ovarian cancer genetic? Yes, certain genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 increase the risk.)
Age (More common in women over 50)
Endometriosis
Hormonal factors (Early menstruation or late menopause)
Obesity and an unhealthy lifestyle
Polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) (Does PCOS lead to ovarian cancer? PCOS increases the risk but does not directly cause cancer.)
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be vague and may mimic other common conditions. Many women wonder, "How I knew I had ovarian cancer?" The following symptoms may indicate ovarian cancer and should not be ignored:
Persistent bloating
Abdominal or pelvic pain
Frequent urination
Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
Unexplained weight loss
Fatigue
Menstrual irregularities (Does ovarian cancer stop periods? It can, but not always.)
If you experience any of these ovarian cancer symptoms, consult a cancer specialist in Surat for further evaluation.
How is Ovarian Cancer Detected?
How to detect ovarian cancer? It is diagnosed through screening and medical tests.
Screening for Ovarian Cancer
Currently, no standard screening test exists for ovarian cancer in asymptomatic women.
Women with a high genetic risk (BRCA mutations) may require regular monitoring.
Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer
How do you test for ovarian cancer? The following diagnostic methods help detect ovarian cancer:
Pelvic Examination
Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) (Can ovarian cancer be seen on ultrasound? Yes, though further tests are needed.)
CA-125 Blood Test (Elevated CA-125 levels can indicate ovarian cancer.)
CT Scan/MRI
Biopsy
Prevention of Ovarian Cancer
How to prevent ovarian cancer? While ovarian cancer cannot always be prevented, the risk can be reduced by:
Maintaining a healthy lifestyle
Taking oral contraceptives (birth control pills reduce ovarian cancer risk)
Breastfeeding
Having children before the age of 30
Undergoing genetic testing if there is a family history
Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
Is ovarian cancer curable? Early-stage ovarian cancer is highly treatable, and treatment options depend on the stage and type of cancer.
How is ovarian cancer treated?
Surgery – Removal of the affected ovary, fallopian tube, or uterus (Can ovarian cancer be cured by removing the ovary? In some cases, yes.)
Chemotherapy – Drug treatment to destroy cancer cells
Targeted Therapy – Medications like Bevacizumab that block cancer growth. For BRCA-positive ovarian cancer patients, PARP inhibitorslike Olaparib, Niraparib, and Rucaparib are used to target cancer cells and improve survival rates.
Immunotherapy – Boosts the body’s immune response against cancer
For advanced treatment, visit a best cancer hospital in Surat, where expert oncologists offer the latest therapies, including immunotherapy in Surat.
FAQs about Ovarian Cancer
Q: How to check for ovarian cancer at home?
A: While there is no home test, staying aware of symptoms and undergoing regular checkups can help with early detection.
Q: Can ovarian cysts cause cancer?
A: Most ovarian cysts are benign, but some can become cancerous over time.
Q: Can ovarian cancer stop menstruation?
A: Yes, ovarian cancer can cause hormonal changes that affect the menstrual cycle.
Q: Can ovarian cancer be cured?
A: Yes, especially when detected in early stages.
Q: Is ovarian cancer genetic?
A: Yes, genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the risk.
Conclusion
Ovarian cancer is a serious condition, but with early detection and advanced treatments, survival rates have improved. If you or someone you know is experiencing symptoms, consult Dr. Kaushal Patel, the best oncologist in Surat, for expert diagnosis and treatment. Visit a top cancer hospital in Surat for comprehensive care and the latest treatment options.
For appointments, contact Dr. Kaushal Patel, the best cancer doctor in Surat, and take the first step towards better health.
