Frequency and/or urgency of urination in absence of an infection
Pelvic and/or abdominal bloating
Persistent feeling of fullness
OTHER SYMPTOMS INCLUDE:
Unexplained weight gain or weight loss
Pelvic and/or abdominal swelling, bloating and/or feeling of fullness
Ongoing unusual fatigue
Unexplained changes in bowel habits
RISK FACTORS:
Genetic predisposition
Personal or family history of breast, ovarian or colon cancer
Increasing age
Undesired infertility
FACTS:
All women are at risk.
Symptoms do exist and can be extremely vague, yet increase over time.
Early detection increases survival rate of early stage disease.
A Pap Smear DOES NOT detect ovarian cancer.
All women should see their gynecologist for a pelvic examination every year to check for ovarian, uterine and cervical cancer.
Ovarian Cancer is the 5th leading cause of death among women in the United States and most deadly of the gynecologic cancers. 1 out of 55 women will get Ovarian Cancer.
Ovarian Cancer is difficult to diagnose because symptoms may be subtle and easily confused with other ailments.
There is no single reliable screening test, however a CA125 blood test is recommended.
With early detection, before spreading beyond the ovaries, more than 90% will survive longer than 5 years. Less than 20% of women are diagnosed in the early stages.
Overall, 5 year survival rate for women with Ovarian Cancer is 35%-49%. 50% will die within 5 years.
When diagnosed in stages III or IV, the chance of 5 year survival is less than 40%.
The American Cancer Society estimates there will be 22,200 new cases of Ovarian Cancer per year and 16,200 women will die of Ovarian Cancer.
If Ovarian Cancer is suspected, see a gynecological oncologist who specializes in women’s cancers, especially if any symptoms persist for more than 2 weeks.
A pelvic exam, transvaginal ultrasound and a CAl25 blood test are recommended.
