Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent disease” because its symptoms are usually vague and easily mistaken for common digestive or hormonal problems. Unfortunately, this often leads to delayed diagnosis. Increasing awareness about ovarian cancer can help women recognize warning signs early and seek timely medical care.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian Cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries — the organs responsible for producing eggs and female hormones. It can occur in one or both ovaries and may spread to nearby organs if not detected early. Although it is not the most common gynaecologic cancer, it is a serious health concern because it is often diagnosed in advanced stages.
Which Age Group is Commonly Affected?
Ovarian cancer is more commonly seen in women after menopause. The highest risk is usually between 55 and 65 years of age. However, younger women may also develop certain types of ovarian tumors, such as germ cell tumours and borderline ovarian tumours, making awareness important across all age groups.
Who is at Risk?
Several factors may increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer:
* Family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer
* Inherited genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2
* Increasing age and postmenopausal status
* Never having been pregnant
* Endometriosis
* Obesity and unhealthy lifestyle habits
10-15% of ovarian cancers are hereditary, which means they can be due to genetic mutations that are passed down from one generation to the next. Women with a strong family history should consider genetic counseling and regular follow-up with a gynecologic specialist.
The remaining 85-90% of ovarian cancers are sporadic. They occur in those with risk factors for ovarian cancer. Often, the it is difficult to identify the exact cause of cancer in these cases. Sporadic cancers cannot be passed down to the patient’s children.
What are the Early Symptoms?
The early symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle but persistent. Women should not ignore symptoms that occur frequently or continue for more than a few weeks.
Common warning signs include:
* Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling
* Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
* Feeling full quickly while eating
* Loss of appetite
* Frequent urination
* Unexplained weight loss or fatigue
* Changes in bowel habits such as constipation
Because these symptoms overlap with common gastrointestinal problems, many women delay seeking medical attention.
Who Should Be Screened and How?
Currently, there is no effective routine screening test recommended for all women. However, women at high risk — especially those with a strong family history or known BRCA mutations — may benefit from regular evaluation.
Screening methods may include:
* Ultrasound scan, especially transvaginal ultrasound
* CA-125 blood test, a tumor marker that may be elevated in some ovarian cancers
These tests are not perfect and are mainly used for high-risk women. Early consultation with a gynecologic oncologist is essential if suspicious symptoms persist.
Prevention
Apart from healthy lifestyle, the use of oral contraceptive pills has shown to reduce the incidence of some types of ovarian cancer.
For those with known genetic mutations such as BRCA 1 and2, prophylactic removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes has significantly reduced the risk of ovarian cancer. This procedure is highly recommened in high risk individuals after the completion of child bearing, ideally around 35-40 years of age.
Final Thoughts
Awareness is the first step toward early detection. Although ovarian cancer is called a silent disease, listening to your body and recognizing persistent symptoms can make a significant difference. Regular health checkups and timely medical evaluation can help improve outcomes and save lives.
