Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries of the female reproductive system. There are two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus. Both of the ovaries produce ova, as well as estrogen and progesterone hormones Ovarian cancer commonly remains undetected until it proliferates within the pelvis and abdomen. At this late stage, it is usually harder to treat.
Symptoms
There are very rare symptoms in early-stage ovarian cancer. In the advanced-stage, ovarian cancer may cause some signs and symptoms that may include:
- Swelling of the abdomen
- Feeling of fullness quickly when eating
- Loss of weight
- Some bowel habits changes, such as constipation
- Some changes in urination frequency
- Uncomfortable feeling in the pelvis area
Causes
The exact causes of ovarian cancer are unclear, though there are risk factors identified.
Types of ovarian cancer include:
- Epithelial tumors: These start in the thin layer of tissue that covers the outside of the ovaries. They are the most common and around 90 percent of ovarian cancers are of this type.
- Stromal tumors: These starts in the ovarian tissue that has the hormone-producing cells. They are often diagnosed at a much earlier stage than the other types of ovarian tumors.
- Germ cell tumors: These start in the egg-producing cells. They are much rarer form and tend to happen in women of younger ages.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer include:
- Older age
It is more common in women ages 50 to 60 years.
- Inherited gene mutations
A tiny percentage of ovarian cancers are caused by gene mutations inherited at birth.
- Family history of ovarian cancer
People who have two or more close relatives with ovarian cancer have an increased risk of the same.
- Estrogen hormone replacement therapy
- Age when menstruation started and ended
Starting menstruation at an early age or beginning menopause at a later age, or both may increase the risk of the disease.
Treatment
The treatment usually depends on how far the cancer has spread. The treatment plan it is determined by a team of doctors depending on your situation. It is commonly likely to include two or more of the following:
- Radiation
- Chemotherapy
- Surgery to determine the stage of the cancer and removal of tumor
- Hormone therapy
- Targeted therapy
Disclaimer: The information in no way constitutes, or should be construed as medical advice. Nor is the above article an endorsement of any research findings discussed in the article an endorsement for any of the source publications.
