Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is the growth of cells on each side of the uterus in the female reproductive system which produce eggs (ova) as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone. This can occur in three areas -  in the cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary, in the cells that produce your eggs, or in the cells that make hormones. These different cells can make different types of tumors.

Physicians are not sure what causes ovarian cancer, but here are a few facts to be aware of:

• Anyone can get ovarian cancer, however, the risk increases with age and other factors. 
• About half of the women who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer are 63 years or older. 
• In the United States, white women see the highest rate of ovarian cancer, followed by Hispanic women, Asian/Pacific Islander women, and Black women.

There are no recommended routine screening guidelines for ovarian cancer for those women who are NOT at high risk. This is because there is no evidence that screening testing reduces mortality in women at average risk. A Pap test does not screen for ovarian cancer. 

It is important to recognize symptoms and learn what you can do to reduce your risk. If you notice any unusual changes in your body, talk to your doctor.

Signs & Symptoms

• Unusual vaginal bleeding or discharge
• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Quickly feeling full when eating
• Weight loss
• Pain and/or discomfort in the pelvic area
• Fatigue
• Back pain
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
• A frequent urge to urinate

Risk Factors & Behaviors

• Older age
• Inherited gene changes - including BRCA1 and BRCA2, BRIP1, RAD51C and RAD51D
• Family history of ovarian cancer
• Being overweight or obese
• Postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy
• Endometriosis
• Beginning menstruation at an early age and/or starting menopause at a later age
• Never having been pregnant

There's no definitive way to prevent ovarian cancer, however, you may consider asking your doctor whether birth control pills (oral contraceptives) may be right for you as they can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.

Testing

• Pelvic exam
• Imaging tests
• Blood test
• Surgery
• Genetic testing

Treatment Options

• Surgery
• Chemotherapy
• Targeted therapy
• Hormone therapy
• Immunotherapy

Local Resources

• https://www.louisianacancercenter.org/

National Resources

• https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian 
• https://www.cancer.org/cancer/types/ovarian-cancer.html 
• https://www.cdc.gov/ovarian-cancer/index.html 
• https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20375941