Ovarian cancer affects 7,500 women each year in UK only, making it the 6th most common cancer in women.
This cancer affects the ovaries and is more common in women over the age of 50. Sadly, it is often diagnosed late, but if caught early, it is more treatable.
Even women who had had their ovaries removed are not immune to this cancer as it can also affect the fallopian tubes, or the lining inside the tummy (peritoneum).
Although the exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, there are certain factors that can increase or reduce the risks.
As per the Cancer Research UK, some of those factors are age – most affected women of this form of cancer are those aged 75 to 79 – inherited faulty genes, previous diagnosis of cancer at younger age (especially breast cancer), using hormone replacement therapy (HRT), smoking, and certain medical conditions such as endometriosis or diabetes.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague. The most common ones include:
Abdominal bloating: Feeling bloated during menstrual period or after consuming certain foods is rather normal. However, if the bloated tummy persists it can be a symptom of ovarian cancer. Around 72% of individuals with ovarian cancer experienced bloating.
Pelvic or stomach pain: A research by the National Library of Medicine reports that 39% of women with this type of cancer experienced pelvic or stomach pain. Some described it as an intense pressure, while others compare it to menstrual pain.
Bowel pattern changes: Diarrhea and constipation have been experienced by around 20% of women with ovarian cancer prior to their diagnosis, a research reveals.
Urinary changes: The need for frequent urination is listed as yet another ovarian cancer symptom. Besides this, some individuals reporting feeling a burning sensation during urination, or feeling their bladder being full after urinating.
Changes to your cycle: A 2020 research shows that 13% of women diagnosed with this type of cancer experienced vaginal bleeding prior to their diagnosis.
Weight loss: Another symptom of cancer is weight loss even when the individual isn’t trying to lose any.
Other conditions can show similar symptoms so it is always of crucial importance to consult with your doctor if you notice any changes in your body that may indicate any sickness.
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