While ovarian cancer is only the ninth most common cancer in women, it is the leading cause of death from cancers affecting the female reproductive system.
The ovaries are responsible for producing and releasing eggs during ovulation. The female hormones, estrogen and progesterone, are also created and released by the ovaries. Sometimes, abnormal cells develop and proliferate in ovarian tissue resulting in ovarian cancer.
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Detecting ovarian cancer in its earlier stages is difficult. The symptoms are often subtle and none are specific to this particular illness. Women should contact their gynecologist in Atlanta at the first sign of any of the following:
- Vaginal Bleeding or abnormal discharge
- Pelvic / abdominal pain
- Pressure or pain in the lower back
- Persistent abdominal bloating
- Changes in bowel movements
- Urinating more frequently
- Loss of appetite or feeling full more quickly
Important Ovarian Cancer Statistics
Though ovarian cancer is fairly rare, statistics reflect how deadly this cancer can be due to its vague symptoms and how difficult it is to detect during early stages.
Yearly Statistics
- Approximately 22,280 women in the US will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year.
- An estimated 14,420 deaths occur in the US from ovarian cancer each year.
5 Year Survival Rate
- Women under 65 with ovarian cancer: 58 percent
- Women over 65 with ovarian cancer: 28 percent
- If the cancer has not spread: 73 percent
- If the cancer has spread to a distant part of the body: 28 percent
Early detection is the key to a better prognosis.
What is the Best Way to Detect Ovarian Cancer Early?
The most effective way to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages is through a yearly women’s health exam. These annual visits provide women in Atlanta an opportunity to discuss any symptoms they feel which could necessitate further investigation. In addition, a doctor will perform a pelvic exam to feel the ovaries and to detect any possible abnormalities. It should be noted, however, that early-stage ovarian cancer may be difficult for the physician to feel.
If a patient is exhibiting warning signs of ovarian cancer, the following tests may be performed:
Transvaginal Sonography
An ultrasound that is performed with a small instrument that is inserted into the vagina. This will allow the obgyn to identify any abnormal growths on or around the ovaries.
CA-125 Test
A blood test that measures the levels of CA-125, a protein that is produced by cancerous ovarian cells. This test is not always the most accurate indicator of ovarian cancer because other conditions could cause elevated CA-125 levels.
If you are feeling any of the symptoms listed above or need to schedule your annual visit, please contact Atlanta Women’s Obstetrics & Gynecology to make an appointment.
Call (404) 352-3616 or schedule an appointment online.