overview
Ovarian cancer
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Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries. The female reproductive system contains two ovaries, one on each side of the uterus. The ovaries – each the size of an almond – produce eggs and the hormones estrogen and progesterone.
- Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until it spreads to the pelvis and abdomen. At this advanced stage, ovarian cancer is more difficult to treat. Early ovarian cancer, where the disease is confined to the ovary, is more likely to be treated successfully.Ovarian cancer Treatment Hyderabad
symptom
Female reproductive organs
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Early ovarian cancer rarely causes symptoms. Advanced ovarian cancer can cause few non-specific symptoms that are often mistaken for more common, benign conditions.Ovarian cancer Treatment Hyderabad
The signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer can include:
- Abdominal bloating or swelling
- Feel full quickly while eating
- Weight loss
- Pelvic discomfort
- Changes in bowel habits such as constipation
- Frequent urination
The reasons
It is unknown what causes ovarian cancer, although doctors have identified factors that can increase your risk of the disease.
- Cancer usually starts when a cell develops defects (mutations) in its DNA. Mutations tell the cell to grow and multiply quickly, creating a mass (tumor) of abnormal cells. The abnormal cells continue to live when the healthy cells die. They can invade nearby tissue and break away from an initial tumor to spread (metastasize) elsewhere in the body.
Risk factors
Factors that can increase your risk of ovarian cancer include:
- An older age. Ovarian cancer can occur at any age, but is more common in women between the ages of 50 and 60.
Inherited genetic mutations. A small percentage of ovarian cancer is caused by genetic mutations inherited from your parents. Genes known to increase the risk of ovarian cancer are called breast cancer gene 1 (BRCA1) and breast cancer gene 2 (BRCA2). These genes also increase the risk of breast cancer. - Other genetic mutations, including those associated with Lynch syndrome, are known to increase the risk of ovarian cancer.
- Family history of ovarian cancer. People with two or more close relatives who have ovarian cancer are at increased risk of developing the disease.
Estrogen hormone replacement therapy, especially with long-term use and in large doses.
prevention
There is no surefire way to prevent ovarian cancer. However, there are ways to reduce your risk:
- Consider taking birth control pills. Ask your doctor if birth control pills are right for you. Women who use oral contraceptives may have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. Oral contraceptives, however, come with risks. Therefore, discuss whether the benefits outweigh these risks depending on your situation.
- Discuss your risk factors with your doctor. If you have a family history of breast and ovarian cancer, talk to your doctor. Your doctor can determine what this may mean for your own cancer risk. In some cases, your doctor may refer you to a genetic counselor who can help you decide whether genetic testing is right for you.Ovarian cancer Treatment Hyderabad