Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive glands responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. It is one of the most serious gynecological cancers due to its often late diagnosis.
There are several types of ovarian cancer, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common. Others include germ cell tumors and stromal cell tumors, which are less frequent. Risk factors include age (most cases occur after menopause), family history of ovarian or breast cancer, inherited genetic mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), infertility, and hormone replacement therapy.
Early-stage ovarian cancer may not cause noticeable symptoms. As the disease progresses, symptoms may include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, frequent urination, and changes in appetite. These signs are often vague and mistaken for less serious conditions.
Diagnosis involves a combination of pelvic exams, imaging tests (ultrasound or CT scans), blood tests (including CA-125), and biopsy. Treatment usually includes surgery to remove the tumor and affected tissues, followed by chemotherapy. Targeted therapy and hormone therapy may also be used in some cases.
Early detection significantly improves outcomes, but because symptoms are subtle, many cases are diagnosed at advanced stages. Awareness and regular checkups are key to early diagnosis and effective treatment.