Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs (ova) and hormones. It is the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths among women in the United States.

Types of Ovarian Cancer

There are several types of ovarian cancer, including:

• Epithelial ovarian cancer: This is the most common type of ovarian cancer, accounting for about 90% of cases. It begins in the epithelial layer of the ovary, which is the outer layer that covers the ovary.
• Germ cell ovarian cancer: This type of cancer begins in the cells that produce eggs (germ cells) and accounts for about 2-3% of cases.
• Stromal ovarian cancer: This type of cancer begins in the connective tissue that supports the ovary and accounts for about 1-2% of cases.

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and may not appear until the disease is advanced. Common symptoms include:

• Bloating or swelling in the abdomen
• Pelvic pain or discomfort
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Urinary urgency or frequency
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Abnormal vaginal bleeding

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

Certain factors can increase a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer, including:

• Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
• Genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2)
• Age (risk increases with age, especially after menopause)
• Obesity
• Never having children or having them later in life
• Hormone replacement therapy

Diagnosis of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is typically diagnosed using a combination of the following tests:

• Pelvic exam
• Imaging tests (such as ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI)
• Blood tests (such as CA-125)
• Biopsy

Treatments for Ovarian Cancer

The treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the woman's overall health. Common treatments include:

• Surgery: To remove the tumor, ovary, and any affected tissue.
• Chemotherapy: To kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body.
• Radiation therapy: To kill cancer cells that may have spread to other parts of the body.
• Hormone therapy: To block the production of hormones that can fuel the growth of cancer cells.
• Targeted therapy: To target specific molecules involved in the growth and spread of cancer cells.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is typically staged using the following system:

• Stage I: The cancer is limited to the ovaries.
• Stage II: The cancer has spread to the pelvis or nearby organs.
• Stage III: The cancer has spread to the abdomen or lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: The cancer has spread to distant parts of the body, such as the liver or lungs.

Prognosis and Survival Rates

The prognosis and survival rates for ovarian cancer vary depending on the stage and type of cancer. Generally:

• Stage I: 90-95% 5-year survival rate
• Stage II: 70-80% 5-year survival rate
• Stage III: 30-50% 5-year survival rate
• Stage IV: 10-20% 5-year survival rate

Prevention and Screening

While there is no sure way to prevent ovarian cancer, the following may help reduce the risk:

• Genetic testing for BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations
• Regular pelvic exams
• Pap tests (although these are not effective in detecting ovarian cancer)
• Transvaginal ultrasound
• CA-125 blood test (although this is not a reliable screening tool for ovarian cancer)

Frequently Asked Questions (FAQs)

What is ovarian cancer?
Cancer that starts in the ovaries.

What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Bloating, pelvic pain, abdominal swelling, and difficulty eating.

Who is at risk for ovarian cancer?
Women over 50, family history, genetic mutations.

How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?
Pelvic exam, imaging tests, blood tests, biopsy.

What are the stages of ovarian cancer?
Stage I to IV, depending on tumor size and spread.

What are the treatment options for ovarian cancer?
Surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy.

Can ovarian cancer be prevented?
No, but risk can be reduced with genetic testing and surgery.

Is ovarian cancer curable?
Sometimes, if caught in early stages.

How common is ovarian cancer?
Rare, about 1 in 78 women develop it.

What is the survival rate for ovarian cancer?
Varies by stage, but overall 5-year survival rate is around 47%.