Ovarian cancer: a quiet enemy

Every year about 300,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer and approximately 180,000 of them die due to this disease worldwide. It is estimated that the number of new cases will continue to increase over the next few years, which is why science is working every day to improve prevention and early diagnosis methods.

The ovaries are small, elongated organs located on either side of the uterus. There, ova are stored and female hormones such as estrogens and progesterone are produced. Ovarian cancer tends to go unnoticed because most symptoms appear when the disease is very advanced and has spread to other parts of the body.

Although certain factors could be related to the appearance of this type of cancer, the exact causes of the disease are still uncertain.

Most women have at least some risk factor for developing ovarian cancer.

However, the development of these factors does not imply that the disease will necessarily occur. Among the main risk factors are age over 50 years; family history of ovarian cancer; BRCA1 or BRCA2 genetic mutations; personal history of breast, uterine or colorectal cancer; endometriosis, hormone replacement therapy, infertility or not having had children, among others.

Ovarian cancer is a disease that is difficult to detect or diagnose in its early stages, which partly explains the high mortality rate of those who suffer from it. Once the tumor grows or begins to affect other body organs, symptoms such as abdominal distention, a feeling of fullness with food, abdominal or pelvic pain, discomfort when urinating and vaginal bleeding may occur.

Once ovarian cancer is diagnosed, the treatment options will depend on the health condition, how advanced the disease is, and the type of tumor. In general, treatment consists of surgical removal of the tumor followed by chemotherapy sessions.

Even if the treatment has been successful, there is a possibility that the tumor may recur in the following years. When this happens, the healing chances decrease. About 50% of women diagnosed with ovarian cancer will live for the next 5 years and 1 in 3 for 10 years.

Considering that the specific cause responsible for ovarian cancer has not been identified, the tools available to prevent its development are limited. It is important to consult your doctor as soon as possible in case of any concern, especially when you have a family history of the disease. Some of the following strategies may help reduce the risk: 

 Maintain a healthy weight. 

1. Eat balanced and exercise.

2. Do not smoke.

3. Breastfeeding.

4. contraceptives consumption

5. Surgeries such as hysterectomy or tubal ligation. *

*Medical advice should always be consulted.

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