What You Need to Know About Ovarian Cancer
We have always said that cancer, in general, is a disease that can affect anyone, at any time. Women deal with various types of cancer, but ovarian cancer is a disease that only women can face. It is considered as the fifth leading cause of cancer deaths in women.
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the organs that produces eggs, and is the main source of estrogen and progesterone. Over the years, research has led to the development of more effective treatments for ovarian cancer. Like other types of cancer, a patient’s prognosis is improved significantly the earlier the disease is diagnosed.
It can be tricky, however, for a patient to detect ovarian cancer. Its symptoms include bloating, pain the pelvis or abdomen, and frequent urination; it is noticeable that there is nothing unique about these symptoms, and can also indicate other health conditions. A feature on WebMD, however, suggests that should these symptoms occur daily or last for more than a few weeks, it is best to consult a health care professional.
The risk factors for ovarian cancer include family history, age and obesity. A woman who has a relative who suffered from cancer of the ovaries, breast or colon has a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer. The same holds true for the woman who has undergone menopause and post-menopausal hormone therapy, and the woman who is obese.
Screening tests for ovarian cancer include testing the blood for elevated levels of a protein called CA-125, and through an ultrasound of the ovaries.
Tags: cancer detection, cancer in women, ovarian cancer, ovarian cancer detection, ovarian cancer test, ovarian cancer treatment, ovary cancer, ovary cancer test, women cancer
