Ovarian cancer is a form of cancer that starts in the ovaries. There are two ovaries in the female reproductive organ. One on each side of a uterus. The ovaries — each about the size of an almond — produce eggs (ova) as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Ovarian cancer can often go untreated until it spreads to the abdomen and pelvis. Ovarian cancer in this late stage is much more difficult to treat. If the disease is early in its course, it is more likely that the cancer will be successfully treated.
It is the fifth most prevalent cause of death from cancer in females in the United States. In Nigeria, it is the second most deadly gynecological malignancy.
May 8th, every year, is World Ovarian Cancer Day. It’s a day of solidarity against this terrible disease.
This is everything you need to know regarding Ovaina cancer.
Causes
It’s not clear what causes ovarian cancer, though doctors have identified factors that can increase the risk of the disease.
A cell’s DNA is affected by mutations, which can lead to cancer. The cell’s mutations cause it to grow rapidly, causing a tumor (or mass) of abnormal cells. Normal cells would die, but the abnormal cells live on. They can infiltrate nearby tissues, and spread from the initial tumor (metastasize) to other areas of the body.
Signs
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Trouble feeling full or hungry quickly?
- Feeling the urgency or need to urinate often
- Fatigue
- Heartburn or upset stomach
- Pain in the back
- Pain during sex
- Constipation and changes in bowel habits
- Indigestion
- Weight Loss
Types
Three types of cells make up the ovaries. Every cell can become a different kind of tumor.
- Epithelial cancers form in the layer of tissue on the outside of the ovaries. About 90 percent of ovarian cancers are epithelial tumors.
- Stromal tumors grow in the hormone-producing cells. Seven percent of ovarian cancers are stromal tumors.
- Germ cell tumours develop in the egg-producing cells. Rare are germ cell tumors.
Risk factors
We don’t know the exact cause of ovarian carcinoma. These factors could increase your risk.
- Age ( It usually occurs more in women in their 50’s and 60’s)
- An ovarian cancer family history
- Genetic mutations in genes associated with ovarian and other cancers, such as BRCA1 or BRCA2
- a personal history of breast, uterine,Oder colon cancer
- obesity
- the use of certain fertility drugs or hormone therapies
- There is no pregnancy history
- endometriosis
Treatment
- The type, stage, grade, and extent of the cancer
- the individual’s age and overall health
- Their personal preferences
- Accessibility and affordability of treatment
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
