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, for the small percent of women who are diagnosed before the cancer has spread, the chance for recovery is 85 to 90 percent.
There is no single, reliable test for detecting ovarian cancer. Therefore, annual gynecology exams and combinations of several tests are helpful in detecting ovarian cancer. The sooner ovarian cancer is found and treated, the better a woman’s chance for recovery. Many of the deaths from these cancers can be prevented with early detection and by understanding a woman’s risk factors.
Risk factors include:
- family history of gynecological and/or breast cancer
- uninterrupted ovulation (never used birth control, never pregnant)
- increased age
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 keep a regular schedule of getting an annual gynecology exam. By the time the symptoms become severe, the cancer has usually spread to other parts of the body, greatly decreasing the chance of survival.
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 gynecological exams, ovarian cancer can be detected early, giving the best chance for survival.
