Ovarian Cancer
Overview
Ovarian cancer begins when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow and divide more quickly than they should, forming a tumor that can spread to nearby tissues or other areas of the body. The ovaries are two small, almond-shaped organs located on each side of the uterus. They produce eggs as well as the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
Ovarian cancer can be challenging to detect early because symptoms are often subtle or mistaken for other conditions. When it is found at an early stage, outcomes are significantly more favorable. Treatment usually includes surgery, chemotherapy, and other targeted approaches depending on the specific type and stage of disease.
Signs & Symptoms
Ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognize early because symptoms are often vague and similar to many common, noncancerous conditions. As the disease progresses, symptoms may become more noticeable or persistent.
Common signs and symptoms may include:
- Abdominal bloating or visible swelling
- Feeling full quickly when eating
- Unexplained weight loss
- Pelvic or abdominal discomfort
- Persistent fatigue
- Lower back pain
- Changes in bowel habits, including constipation
- Increased or more frequent urination
If these symptoms occur daily or persist for several weeks, it is important to speak with your doctor. Early evaluation can help ensure timely diagnosis and care.
Causes
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood. What is known is that ovarian cancer begins when cells in or near the ovaries develop changes in their DNA. These changes disrupt normal cell behavior, causing cells to grow and divide more quickly than they should. Instead of dying at the appropriate time, these abnormal cells continue to multiply, forming a tumor that can invade nearby tissue and spread to other parts of the body.
While the direct cause is unclear, several factors are known to increase the risk of ovarian cancer, including inherited gene changes, age, reproductive history, and certain medical conditions. Having one or more risk factors does not mean someone will develop ovarian cancer, and many people with ovarian cancer have no known risk factors.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is categorized based on the type of cell where it begins. This helps guide treatment planning and provides important information about how the cancer may behave.
This is the most common type and begins in the thin layer of tissue covering the ovaries. It includes several subtypes, such as serous and mucinous carcinomas.
These rare tumors develop in the ovarian tissue that produces hormones. They are often diagnosed earlier than other forms of ovarian cancer.
These uncommon cancers start in the cells that form eggs. They tend to occur more often in teenagers and young adults.
Risk Factors
Several factors can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Having one or more does not mean that someone will develop the disease, but these factors can influence overall risk:
- Older age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age and is most commonly diagnosed in adults over 50.
- Inherited gene changes: A small percentage of ovarian cancers are linked to inherited gene mutations. BRCA1 and BRCA2 are the most widely known, and they also increase the risk of breast cancer. Other genes associated with higher ovarian cancer risk include those linked to Lynch syndrome, as well as BRIP1, RAD51C, and RAD51D.
- Family history of ovarian cancer: Having close relatives with ovarian cancer increases the likelihood of developing the disease.
- Being overweight or obese: Higher body weight has been associated with an increased risk.
- Postmenopausal hormone therapy: Using hormone replacement therapy after menopause may raise the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Endometriosis: This condition, in which tissue similar to the uterine lining grows outside the uterus, has been linked to higher ovarian cancer risk.
- Early menstruation or late menopause: Starting menstruation before age 12 or experiencing menopause after age 55 increases lifetime exposure to hormones, which may increase risk.
- Never having been pregnant: People who have never carried a pregnancy have a slightly higher risk of ovarian cancer.
Treatments & Services
Treatment Options
Ovarian cancer care often involves a combination of surgery and medication-based therapies. Your treatment plan depends on the type and stage of the cancer, your overall health, and your personal preferences. A multidisciplinary team will help guide each step. Common treatment options include:
Services Options
People with ovarian cancer may receive a range of supportive services designed to help manage symptoms, maintain quality of life, and support overall well-being throughout treatment. These may include:
Find Care
If you have symptoms that concern you or have been diagnosed with ovarian cancer, specialized care is important. Our team connects you with gynecologic oncology experts who can guide diagnosis, treatment planning, and supportive services every step of the way. Reach out to schedule a consultation or learn more about the care available near you.
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