Is early identification of ovarian cancer possible?

by Vivek Choudhary Nice life

To begin with, the term ‘Ovarian Cancer’, is one among the wide spectrum of cancers diagnosed throughout the world. And like them all, it is caused due to formation of a clot (or tumour) caused by the outgrowth of cells, in this case, in the female reproductive organ, that is, from anywhere in the ovaries to the end of the fallopian tubes. But, unlike others of its kind, its symptoms are rarely distinguishable from common illnesses, which make early detection a tougher task. Thus, a quick insight into ‘what to look for, who is at risk and how can it be detected’ can help set the cornerstone of such an endeavour.

Since early detection of cancer leaves a variety of alternative treatments to choose from, one must consult a doctor if the following symptoms persist or grow unusually over time:

● Menstrual irregularities

● Abdominal(belly) pain or cramping

● Lack of proper appetite or abnormal fullness

● Abdominal bloating, pressure or pain

● Indigestion, heartburn or constipation

● Stimulated pressure of urination

● Nausea and quick exhaustion

● Lower back pain

According to the National Cancer Institute, only 20% of ovarian cancers are detected on an early stage, attributed to its undetectable symptoms and when found early, 94% of patients live longer than 5 years after being diagnosed. Also, the risk of developing ovarian cancer increases with age, women above the age of 50 have a higher risk, mostly found among whom, are those already through menopause. More than 50% of those diagnosed with ovarian cancer are above the 60-65 age group.

However, one must keep in mind that survival rates are estimated based of previous reports of a varied population, which might consequently change along with personal diagnosis, thus, one can consult a gynecologist doctor in Gurgaon or a pregnancy pain center in Gurgaon who would provide specific details of the situation.

Since there is no feasible periodic diagnostic screening for ovarian cancer, ovarian tumours are difficult to discover, unless a health care professional runs a pelvic examination upon suspicion of possibility. One can also consult a pregnancy specialist doctor in Chandigarh, in case they harbour any doubt.

The following tests other than the Pelvic exam help detect the possibility of ovarian cancer:

● Transvaginal Ultrasound(TVUS): it helps detect the formation of a tumour using sound waves, however nature, that is, if it is cancerous or not, cannot be determined.

● CA-125 Blood Test: to measure cancer antigens

● Biopsy: a sample of ovarian tissue is pathologically examined, and is the only way to certify ovarian cancer.

Thus, to answer the posed question, yes, early detection of ovarian cancer is possible and can prevent it from annexing other parts of the body or organs within the abdomen such as the liver, intestines, and stomach. Since the survival rates are low at an advanced stage, only an early diagnosis may protract one’s lifetime.