Ovarian cancer ranks high on the list of cancer deaths among American women, according to the Ovarian Cancer National Alliance. It is so deadly due to the fact that it is very difficult to detect in its early stages. The only way to detect the cancer is by microscopic examination. Usually, once the disease has been diagnosed, severe damage has already occurred in the body. Women are advised to become educated in the area of genetic health and take an active role in the prevention of this disease.
Diagnosis
Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries. Healthy ovarian cells begin to multiply abnormally, producing tumors in one or both ovaries. There are no significant symptoms of the disease. When symptoms are detected such as nausea, indigestion or fatigue, they are usually confused with other diseases. By the time more severe symptoms are noticeable and a doctor discerns the disease, the cancer has spread to other organs and has done considerable damage. More severe symptoms may include pelvic and back pain, vaginal bleeding and pain during sexual intercourse. According to statistics, a woman has only about a 20 percent chance of survival past the next five years at this point.
Treatment and Prevention
Ovarian cancer can be hereditary. Usually, a woman with a significant family history of breast or ovarian cancer has a greater chance of developing the disease. Other factors that can contribute to obtaining this deadly disease include obesity, age and poor diet. Ovarian cancer mostly occurs in women who are menopausal but other women could also be at risk. Women who have taken fertility drugs are at a higher risk than those who have not.
There is little that can be done to treat ovarian cancer once it has been diagnosed. This makes it a difficult subject to approach. Thus, it important for women to stay educated on matters concerning genetic health and ovarian cancer. It is also pertinent that women stay in tune with what is happening in their bodies. If ovarian cancer is detected early (before it spreads to other body organs) there is an excellent chance of it being successfully treated.
Chemotherapy has been recommended by some doctors as a preventative measure for ovarian cancer. Surgery has been recommended for women at high risk. It is impossible, however, for preventative surgery to eliminate all risks of developing the disease. If a woman is knowledgeable of her family history as it pertains to genetic disorders, she should seek help in the form of genetic counseling. This will improve her chances of deterring the disease. A greater awareness of genetic cancer issues can help a woman take better charge of her life.
 |
