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March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. In the UK, more than 70,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. However, for many, it remains a silent and often misunderstood disease, with subtle or no symptoms in its early stages. In this blog, we’ll explore the importance of raising awareness, promoting early detection, and offering support to those affected.
What is Ovarian Cancer? Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are the reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It occurs when abnormal cells in the ovaries grow uncontrollably and form tumours. Ovarian cancer often doesn't cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages, making it difficult to detect until it has spread. It can affect women of any age, but it is more common in those over 50.
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be difficult to recognise due to their subtle nature. However, being aware of them can be life-saving. If you experience any of the following symptoms consistently for more than 12 times a month, it’s important to consult your GP.
Symptoms:
Persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes)
Feeling full quickly and/or loss of appetite
Pelvic or abdominal pain (from your stomach to the top of your thighs)
Urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual)
Less common symptoms:
Changes in bowel habit (e.g. diarrhoea or constipation)
Extreme fatigue (feeling very tired)
Unplanned weight loss
Unusual bleeding from the vagina before or after the menopause
The risk of developing ovarian cancer is about 2 in 100 (TargetOvarianCancer.org). While anyone with ovaries is at risk, several factors can influence the likelihood of developing the disease.
Risk Factors:
Age: Ovarian cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50, particularly those who are postmenopausal.
Family History: A family history of ovarian, breast, or other related cancers can increase the risk, especially if close relatives (mother, sister, or daughter) have had the disease.
Hormonal Factors: Women who have used hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause may have an increased risk. Also, women who have never been pregnant or have had fertility treatments may be at higher risk.
Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or had children later in life may have a higher risk. Early menstruation (before age 12) and late menopause (after age 50) also increase the risk due to prolonged exposure to oestrogen.
Personal History of Cancer: Women who have had breast cancer, colorectal cancer, or endometrial cancer may be at higher risk for ovarian cancer.
Obesity: Obesity has been linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer, possibly due to higher levels of certain hormones produced by fatty tissue.
Endometriosis: Women with endometriosis, a condition where tissue similar to the lining of the uterus grows outside of it, have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Diagnosis:
Diagnosing ovarian cancer typically involves a combination of tests, as symptoms can be vague and easily overlooked.
Pelvic exam: The doctor may physically check for abnormal masses in the ovaries.
Imaging tests: Ultrasound or CT scans can help identify cysts or tumours.
Blood tests: A blood test called CA-125 can measure the level of a protein that may be elevated in ovarian cancer, although it’s not definitive.
Biopsy: If a tumour is detected, a sample of tissue may be taken for examination.
Treatment:
Treatment for ovarian cancer usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. Surgery is typically the first step, aimed at removing as much of the cancer as possible, which may include the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and uterus. Chemotherapy is then used to target any remaining cancer cells. In some cases, targeted therapies or immunotherapy may also be recommended to help halt cancer growth and improve treatment outcomes.
Facing Ovarian Cancer:
Facing ovarian cancer can be incredibly tough, but it’s important to know you don’t have to go through it alone. With the right support from family, friends, and medical professionals, many women navigate the challenges of treatment and recovery. Treatment options are improving, and staying informed and connected can make a big difference in managing the journey ahead.
Support:
If you are currently facing ovarian cancer or just simply looking for information, we hope this blog has brought you some comfort. If you are looking for further support please do not hesitate to visit the links below.
Macmillan Cancer Support- find your local cancer support centres
TargetOvarianCancer.org Support Line
Coda Pharmacy is here to support you every step of the way. From helping you face ovarian cancer to offering expert advice and delivering your NHS prescriptions free of charge. If you have any questions about what you have read in this article or any of the services that Coda Pharmacy can provide you with, please do not hesitate to reach out and contact us here.