Ovarian Cancer
Medical News Today defines ovarian cancer as “any cancerous growth that begins in the ovary”. According to World Cancer Research Fund, Ovarian cancer is the 18th most common cancer worldwide, however, it is currently the 7th most common malignancy globally and the most lethal gynecological cancer (Siegel RL et al) while in Nigeria it is the second commonest gynecological malignance (Adekunle O. Oguntayo et al.).
Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it has spread within the pelvis and stomach region. It has warning signs, but the earliest symptoms are vague and easy to dismiss. The symptoms of Ovarian cancer are easily dismissible because they are like the symptoms of other common illnesses. The symptoms include: abdominal bloating, pressure, and pain; abnormal fullness after eating; difficulty eating; an increase in urination; an increased urge to urinate; fatigue; indigestion; heartburn; menstrual irregularities; painful intercourse among others. Although some of these symptoms if not caused by Ovarian cancer goes away when treated, however, if caused by Ovarian cancer, the symptoms persists, and the discomfort increases as the tumor spreads.
Cancer Treatment Centers of America says, that although there is no exact cause of Ovarian Cancer, research however, identifies some number of factors that could put one at risk which include: a family history of ovarian cancer; a personal history of breast, uterine, or colon cancer; obesity; the use of certain fertility drugs or hormone therapies; no history of pregnancy or endometriosis.
Unfortunately, there is no routine diagnostic screening available for ovarian cancer and as such unusual or persistent symptoms is advised to be reported to one’s doctor. There are four (4) stages of Ovarian cancer with Stage 1 been the earliest stage of which when detected can be treated, while stage 4 is the advanced stage of this malignance.
Well, treatment depends on how far the cancer has spread, however, it usually includes two or more of the following treatment plan namely: chemotherapy, surgery to stage the cancer and remove the tumor, targeted therapy or hormone therapy.
There are no proven ways through which this malignance can be prevented, however, research outlines factors that have been shown to reduce the risk of developing it, namely: the use of oral birth control pills, breastfeeding, pregnancy or surgical procedures on one’s reproductive organs.
