Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, which are the female reproductive organs that produce eggs. Ovarian cancer can develop in different types of cells within the ovaries, and there are several different types of ovarian cancer. It is the 6th most common cancer in women in India, with an estimated 36,000 new cases diagnosed each year.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer does not have any noticeable symptoms and so it goes undetected in its early stages. However, as the cancer grows and spreads, it may cause a range of symptoms that can be confused with other conditions. Symptoms such as;
- Abdominal bloating or swelling: Women with ovarian cancer may experience persistent bloating or swelling in the abdomen, which may be accompanied by a feeling of fullness or pressure.
- Pelvic pain or discomfort: Women with ovarian cancer may experience pain or discomfort in the pelvic area, which may be chronic or intermittent.
- Changes in bowel habits: Women with ovarian cancer may experience changes in bowel habits, such as constipation, diarrhea, or increased frequency of bowel movements.
- Changes in urinary habits: Women with ovarian cancer may experience changes in urinary habits, such as increased frequency of urination or a strong urge to urinate.
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly: Women with ovarian cancer may experience a loss of appetite or feeling full quickly after eating, even if they have not eaten much.
- Fatigue: Women with ovarian cancer may experience fatigue or a general feeling of weakness, even if they have not been physically active.
Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is a complex disease, and its exact causes are not fully understood. However, there are several known risk factors that may increase a woman’s chances of developing ovarian cancer. Here are some common risk factors for ovarian cancer:
- Age: Ovarian cancer is most common in women over the age of 50, although it can occur at any age.
- Family History: Women with a family history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer may be at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. Certain genetic mutations, such as mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes, can also increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Personal History: Women who have had breast cancer or certain types of reproductive system cancers may be at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Hormone Therapy: Women who have taken hormone replacement therapy (HRT) for menopause may have a slightly higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Obesity: Women who are overweight or obese may be at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
- Endometriosis: Women with a history of endometriosis, a condition in which the tissue that lines the uterus grows outside the uterus, may be at a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Treatment of Ovarian Cancer
The treatment of ovarian cancer depends on several factors, including the stage and severity of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health and medical history. Here are some common treatment options for ovarian cancer:
- Surgery: Surgery is often the first step in the treatment of ovarian cancer. The goal of surgery is to remove as much of the cancerous tissue as possible, including the ovaries and fallopian tubes, uterus, lymph nodes, and other nearby tissues. In some cases, surgery may be able to remove all of the cancerous tissue and cure the cancer.
- Chemotherapy: In Chemotherapy, specific drugs are used to kill cancer cells. It may be used before or after surgery to help shrink the tumor, kill any remaining cancer cells, or prevent cancer from coming back.
- Targeted Therapy: In Targeted therapy, drugs are used to target specific proteins or other molecules that help in the growth and spread of cancer cells.It may be used in combination with chemotherapy to improve the effectiveness of treatment.
- Radiation Therapy: In this process, high-energy radiation is used to kill cancer cells. The therapy may be used in combination with chemotherapy or surgery to treat ovarian cancer.
- Hormone Therapy: Hormone therapy is a type of cancer treatment that uses drugs to block or lower the levels of certain hormones that can promote the growth of cancer cells. Hormone therapy may be used to treat some types of ovarian cancer.
At Sanskriti Onco Care Hospital, we offer advanced diagnostic and treatment options for ovarian cancer, including minimally invasive surgery and personalised treatment plans tailored to each patient’s individual needs. Our team of experienced healthcare professionals is dedicated to providing compassionate care and support to women with ovarian cancer and their families. Contact us today to schedule an appointment with one of our experienced surgeons and specialists.9