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Ovarian cancer has been called the silent killer for a reason, as early symptoms can be vague or easily mistaken for other less serious issues. (Image for representation: News18)
By the time most ovarian cancers are detected, the disease has usually spread beyond the ovaries. However, if you know what to watch for, you have a chance of catching this cancer early
Sex may permeate our popular culture, but conversations about it are still associated with stigma and shame in Indian households. As a result, most individuals dealing with sexual health issues or trying to find information about sex often turn to unverified online sources or follow the unscientific advice of their friends. To tackle the widespread misinformation about sex, News18.com runs this weekly sex column, called ‘Let’s Talk Sex’. We hope to start conversations about sex through this column and tackle sexual health issues with scientific insight and nuance.
In this article, we will share some essential advice so that you can have the power to identify ovarian cancer earlier.
You know your body better than anyone. So, when something feels off, you have to listen. Ovarian cancer has been called the silent killer for a reason – early symptoms can be vague or easily mistaken for other less serious issues. But this sneaky disease actually whispers early warnings if you’re paying attention.
Understanding Ovarian Cancer and its Symptoms
As the name suggests, ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system. The ovaries are responsible for producing eggs and the hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer can develop in different parts of the ovary and can manifest in different forms, but the majority of cases are epithelial ovarian cancers, which arise from the cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary.
By the time most ovarian cancers are detected, the disease has usually spread beyond the ovaries. However, if you know what to watch for, you have a chance of catching this cancer early.
Here are some common signs of ovarian cancer detection:
- Abdominal swelling: Feeling bloated or full in your abdomen, especially after eating smaller meals, can be an early warning. It can be caused by fluid buildup from tumors.
- Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly: Ovarian tumors can press on your stomach and intestines, reducing your appetite and causing a sense of early satiety. Losing interest in food you normally enjoy is also a concern.
- Persistent indigestion or nausea: We all experience an upset stomach from time to time, but ovarian cancer often causes indigestion, gas, and nausea that won’t go away.
- Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleedingespecially if the bleeding occurs outside of your normal menstrual cycle or after you have gone through menopause.
- Pelvic or abdominal pain: Tenderness, pressure, or pain in the lower abdomen, pelvis, or lower back could be a sign of ovarian cancer. The pain may come and go at first but become more frequent or intense over time.
- Urination more often than usual.
Risk Factors and Genetic Testing
Family history is one of the biggest risk factors for ovarian cancer. If you have close relatives (mother, sister, grandmother) who have had ovarian cancer, your risk is higher. Talk to your doctor about genetic testing, which can check for mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 that increase the risk. Only a few ovarian cancers are associated with these mutations.
Age is another key factor. Ovarian cancer is most common after menopause, usually in the 50s and 60s. So, if you are in this age group, be on the lookout for any symptoms and talk to your doctor immediately if something doesn’t feel right. Obesity and not being pregnant also increase your risk slightly.
Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer
Once ovarian cancer is diagnosed, the treatment options will depend on the stage of the cancer and other factors. The good news is that when caught early, ovarian cancer is easily treatable.
- Surgery: The most common treatment is surgery to remove the ovaries, fallopian tubes and uterus. This is called a total hysterectomy. The surgeon will also remove cancerous tumors and as much of the cancer as possible.
- Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy uses anti-cancer drugs to destroy cancer cells. It is often recommended after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells. Chemotherapy can sometimes be used before surgery to shrink large tumors, making them easier to remove.
- Radiation therapy: Radiation therapy uses high energy rays to kill cancer cells. It is not commonly used for ovarian cancer but may be recommended in some situations.
- Hormone therapy: Hormone therapy blocks the production or action of estrogen and other reproductive hormones that can fuel the growth of some types of cancer. This method is most often used for recurrent ovarian cancer.
The treatment options for ovarian cancer continue to improve over time. Ongoing research is leading to the development of new targeted therapies, immunotherapy drugs and better treatment methods.
Lifestyle Changes to Reduce Your Ovarian Cancer Risk
Making a few changes to your daily routine can help reduce your chances of developing ovarian cancer.
- Lose excess weight: Having a body mass index over 30 puts you at greater risk. Losing pounds through diet and exercise is one of the most effective ways to reduce your risk.
- Eat a balanced diet: A balanced diet with lots of fruit and vegetables, whole grains, and lean protein can help you achieve and maintain a healthy weight.
- Limit red meat and saturated fats: Choose plant-based protein sources such as beans, nuts and seeds instead of red meat. Switch to low-fat or fat-free milk options. And bake, broil or grill foods rather than frying them.
- Be active: Aim for at least 30 minutes of moderate exercise most days of the week. Walking, jogging, yoga, and strength training are all great options. Exercise reduces inflammation in the body and helps regulate hormone levels, both of which can contribute to the development of ovarian cancer.
- Consider birth control: Oral contraceptives, especially when taken over long periods, can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by up to 50 percent. The protection seems to last for many years after you stop taking the tablets. If you have finished having children or are not planning to become pregnant, discuss your birth control options with your doctor.
The reality is that ovarian cancer is a serious disease, but catching it early gives you a much better chance of surviving it. Pay attention to your body, track your symptoms, and see your doctor if you notice anything unusual or worrying. Do not ignore bloating, abdominal pain, trouble eating, or frequent urination. Get regular checkups and tests. Know your family history. With today’s medical treatments and your own positive attitude, you can beat this.
