September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

Ovarian cancer is difficult to detect, making it the leading cause of gynecologic cancer deaths among American women.  Only 24 percent of ovarian cancers are diagnosed at an early stage, when the cancer is confined to the ovary.  However, physicians at OBG-1 say the chance for recovery is 85 to 90 percent for the small percent of women who are diagnosed before the cancer has spread. 

There is no single, reliable test for detecting ovarian cancer.  Therefore, annual gynecology exams and combinations of several tests are recommended by the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition to increase the chances of early detection. “The sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better a woman’s chance for recovery,” explains Ben Darby, MD, obstetrician and gynecologist with OBG-1.  “Even more importantly, many of the deaths from this type of cancer can be prevented with early detection and increasing awareness of a woman’s risk factors for the disease.”

Risk factors include a family history of gynecological and/or breast cancer, uninterrupted ovulation (never used birth control, never pregnant) and increased age.   According to Dr. Darby, symptoms of ovarian cancer are easy to overlook because they are mild.  They include discomfort in the abdomen, pelvic pain, bloating, tiredness and nausea.  “Because these symptoms are common with many other ailments, the best thing women can do is to have an annual gynecology exam,” says Dr. Darby.  “By the time the symptoms become severe, the cancer has usually spread to other parts of the body, greatly decreasing the chance of survival.”

Dr. Darby explains that there are several tests available to determine if a woman has ovarian cancer.  Pelvic examinations involve feeling the uterus and ovaries to find any abnormality in their size.  Ultrasounds allow a gynecologist to get a picture of the area being examined to inspect tissue, cysts, etc.  The CA-125 blood test is used to measure the level of CA-125.  Elevated levels are often higher than normal in women with ovarian cancer.  Unfortunately, this test is not reliable for pre-menopausal women since pregnancy, endometriosis and other issues can elevate the level.

“Through regular screenings and knowing symptoms and risk factors, women can take an aggressive approach to their maintaining their health.  Any concern should be reported to their gynecologist and together, they can decide on the next step,” says Dr. Darby.

In recognition of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, OBG-1 is offering a free informational guide on ovarian cancer.  Call (337) 494-6868 to request your copy.