The ovaries are among a woman’s most important reproductive organs. Sitting on either side of the uterus, the two organs produce and store eggs and also help make key hormones in the female body. When cells in the ovary lose their normal controls, grow uncontrollably and turn cancerous, the result is called ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer is a significant health risk among cancers affecting women. Its biggest challenge is that early symptoms often seem very ordinary. Many women mistake bloating, indigestion, constipation, discomfort in the lower abdomen or feeling full after a small meal for a normal or passing stomach upset. As a result, diagnosis can be delayed. In September, awareness activities on ovarian cancer highlight the possible symptoms, the risk factors, diagnosis and the importance of timely treatment. The aim of awareness is not to cause panic, but to build the habit of taking unusual changes in the body seriously.
What causes it
Ovarian cancer has no single cause. Age, family history, certain inherited changes and some physical conditions are linked to the risk of the disease. The risk rises with age, and women in particular need to be aware of it after menopause, though some types of ovarian cancer can appear at a young age. A history of ovarian cancer in a close relative such as a mother, sister or daughter can raise the risk. If several members of a family have had breast or ovarian cancer, a doctor should be told. Inherited changes in certain genes, known as BRCA1 and BRCA2, and some inherited conditions such as Lynch syndrome are linked to a higher risk of ovarian cancer. Endometriosis has been associated with certain specific types of ovarian cancer, and excess body weight may be linked to the risk of some types. But having a risk factor does not mean cancer will develop, and the disease can occur even without any known risk.
Symptoms not to ignore
The symptoms of ovarian cancer often appear gradually and resemble ordinary stomach complaints. The following changes need attention if they persist or keep coming back:
- Frequent bloating or a swollen abdomen
- Pain or pressure in the lower abdomen or pelvis
- Feeling full after eating only a little
- Changes in appetite
- Repeated indigestion
- Constipation or changes in bowel habits
- A frequent urge to urinate
- An unusual increase in the size of the abdomen
- Weakness or tiredness without a clear reason
- Unusual changes in weight
- Changes in the normal menstrual pattern
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Bleeding after menopause
Having these symptoms does not mean cancer is present. Many other conditions can cause similar symptoms. But if a new symptom keeps recurring or lasts a long time, it is important to see a doctor.
Types
Cancer can arise from different kinds of cells in the ovary. There are three main groups:
- Cancers arising from the cells of the ovary’s outer lining. This is the most common type.
- Cancers arising from the cells involved in producing eggs. These are relatively rare but can also occur in young women.
- Cancers arising from the supporting and hormone-producing tissue inside the ovary.
Tissue testing is important for determining the exact type of cancer, and treatment can differ depending on the type.
Possible complications
If it is not detected and treated in time, ovarian cancer can spread to nearby tissue and different parts of the abdomen. At an advanced stage, fluid can build up in the abdomen and cause swelling. Loss of appetite, feeling full after a little food, weakness and weight loss may follow. If the cancer presses on nearby organs, it can disrupt the normal working of the bowel and urinary tract. Once the disease spreads to other parts of the body, treatment becomes more complicated.
How it is diagnosed
No single test is enough to detect ovarian cancer. A doctor decides which tests are needed after considering the patient’s age, symptoms, family history and the results of a physical examination.
Pelvic examination: checks the uterus, ovaries and surrounding organs for abnormalities.
Ultrasound: uses sound waves to show the size and structure of the ovaries and any cysts or abnormal areas.
CA-125 blood test: levels of this marker can rise in some ovarian cancers, but they can also rise in other conditions. The result of this test alone cannot confirm cancer.
Imaging: where needed, CT or MRI scans are used to see where the disease is and how far it has spread.
Tissue testing: where needed, tissue is taken and examined under a microscope. This test is important for confirming the nature of the cancer.
Treatment
Treatment depends on the type of cancer, how far it has spread, the patient’s age and their overall physical condition. Surgery, anti-cancer drugs, targeted therapy and other methods may be used as needed.
A cancer specialist decides which treatment each patient needs, based on test results and the stage of the disease. So if cancer is suspected, it is important to see an appropriate doctor without delay.
বাংলায় মূল প্রতিবেদন পড়ুন · Read the original Bengali report