Ovarian Cancer | Chanda's Arc

The Association for Reproductive Cancers (ARC) is dedicated to increasing awareness, advancing research, providing education, and advocating for reproductive cancers affecting both men and women.

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Overview of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the reproductive glands in women. It is often called a 'silent killer' because symptoms are subtle and easily overlooked, leading to late-stage diagnosis in many cases.

5-Year Survival Rates by Stage

Early detection is critical, as the 5-year survival rate for early-stage ovarian cancer is 93%, compared to just 30% for late-stage cases.

Source: Ovarian Cancer Overview | Survival Rates

Early detection is one of the most powerful tools in the fight against cancer. When cancer is found at an early stage—before it has spread—treatment is often more effective, less invasive, and less costly. For many cancers, including ovarian, breast, and cervical cancer, early detection can dramatically improve survival rates and quality of life.

The Impact of Early Detection

Here’s why early detection matters

Ovarian Cancer: Early-stage detection (Stage I) has a 93% 5-year survival rate, but late-stage detection (Stage III-IV) reduces the survival rate to 30% or lower. Unfortunately, only about 20% of ovarian cancers are found at an early stage, often because symptoms are subtle or absent.

Source: Ovarian Cancer Survival Rates | Ovarian Cancer Key Statistics

The key to early detection is awareness and action. Knowing your body, recognizing potential symptoms, and scheduling regular screenings can save lives. Don’t wait—early detection is your best defense against cancer.

The Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

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Ovarian cancer (OC) develops due to genetic and environmental factors. Mutations in genes like BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase risk, either inherited or spontaneous. Age, hormones, reproductive history, smoking, obesity, and toxin exposure may also contribute. However, causes vary, and in many cases, remain unknown.

OC begins in the ovaries, where uncontrolled cell growth forms tumors, which can be benign or malignant. Symptoms include bloating, pelvic pain, appetite loss, and frequent urination. Early detection through regular check-ups improves treatment success and recovery chances.

Symptoms of OC by Stage

The symptoms of ovarian cancer can vary depending on the stage of the disease. In the early stages, ovarian cancer often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms. However, as the cancer progresses, symptoms may become more apparent.

In the early stages (Stages I and II), symptoms may include:

Abdominal bloating or swelling
Feeling full quickly or having difficulty eating
Pelvic discomfort or pain
Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
Frequent urination

In the later stages (Stages III and IV), as the cancer spreads beyond the ovaries to other parts of the abdomen or body, additional symptoms may occur:

Persistent abdominal pain or pressure
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in appetite
Fatigue
Nausea and vomiting
Shortness of breath
Swelling in the abdomen or legs
Changes in bowel or bladder habits
Bowel Obstruction

It's important to note that these symptoms can also be caused by conditions other than ovarian cancer.

However, if these symptoms persist for more than a few weeks or if they worsen over time, it's essential to consult a healthcare professional for further evaluation and diagnosis. Early detection of ovarian cancer can improve treatment outcomes and increase the chances of successful recovery.

Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and type of cancer, as well as the patient’s overall health. Common treatment options include:

Surgery

to remove the tumor and affected tissues

Chemotherapy

to kill cancer cells or shrink tumors

Targeted Therapy

that focuses on specific cancer cell mechanisms

In some cases, hormone therapy may be used for certain types of ovarian cancer. Treatment plans are often personalized to achieve the best possible outcomes. Early detection and a multidisciplinary approach to care are critical for improving survival rates and quality of life.

Screening Tests for Ovarian Cancer

Screening tests detect diseases like cancer in people without symptoms. While mammograms help detect breast cancer early, no reliable screening test exists for ovarian cancer.

The 2 tests used most often (in addition to a complete pelvic exam) to screen for ovarian cancer are Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS) and the CA-125 blood test.

TVUS (transvaginal ultrasound) uses sound waves to examine reproductive organs and can detect ovarian masses but cannot confirm if they are cancerous. Most detected masses are benign.

The CA-125 blood test measures a protein linked to ovarian cancer but is unreliable for screening since high levels can result from other conditions. Not all ovarian cancer patients have elevated CA-125.

Better ways to screen for ovarian cancer are being researched but currently there are no reliable screening tests. Hopefully, improvements in screening tests will eventually lead to fewer deaths from ovarian cancer.

Resource: The American Cancer Society

Take the First Step Today

Early detection starts with you. Don’t wait for symptoms to appear—take charge of your health today. Regular screenings can detect cancer early, when it’s most treatable, and could save your life.

Learn more about ovarian cancer screening. Don’t wait—early detection could save your life.

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