Can Ovarian Cancer Be Cured? What You Need to Know

Ovarian cancer is cancer that starts in the ovaries — the female organs that release eggs and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. It has been referred to as a "silent killer," as the initial symptoms are nonspecific or simply attributed to general maladies such as bloating or pain in the abdomen. This cancer is usually not found until it has already spread within the pelvis and the abdominal cavity, thus, early detection is of utmost importance. Timely follow-up, symptom awareness, and early physician consultation can do a lot to enhcavity ance outcomes.

At the best oncology hospital in Noida, we prioritize awareness and early detection to maximize survival opportunities for women affected by this disease. This guide gives you the vital information regarding ovarian cancer and how it can be well managed.

Call us at +91 9667064100 immediately and book your appointment in Noida for ovarian cancer treatment at the best hospital.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer, as the name suggests, starts in the ovaries. Ovaries are small, almond-shaped organs that produce eggs and hormones such as estrogen and progesterone. In some cases, ovarian cancer can start in the Fallopian tubes. It has the same symptoms and is treated similarly, even if it comes from the Fallopian tube. No cause has yet been identified, but risk factors can predispose to ovarian cancer.

What are the Symptoms to Watch for with Ovarian Cancer?

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are normally nonspecific and may easily be mistaken for routine illnesses. Certain or recurring signs and symptoms, however, should never be ignored and must be assessed by a physician. Some of the described nonspecific red flags are:

• Abdominal distension or bloating

• Abdominal or pelvic pain

• Difficulty in swallowing or rapid fullness

• Frequent urge to urinate

• Fatigue

• Heartburn or indigestion

• Changes in bowel movements

Should symptoms continue for more than a few weeks, seek the services from the best doctor for ovarian cancer in Noida for timely assessment and expert care.

What are the Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer?

There are certain factors that enhance the risk of ovarian cancer:

• Age: Ovarian cancer occurs predominantly in women over 60 years of age.

• Family History: A familial history of breast or ovarian cancer may raise risk.

• Genetic Mutations: Mutations in BRCA1, BRCA2, or Lynch syndrome genes significantly raise the risk.

• Reproductive History: Women Women who have never given birth or have given birth at an advanced age might be at greater risk.

• Hormone Replacement Therapy: Long-term use of HRT can also increase the chance of developing ovarian cancer.

• Obesity and Endometriosis: These conditions can also enhance the risk of ovarian cancer.

Knowledge of these risk factors can aid in prevention and early detection.

What are the Diagnostic Procedures for Ovarian Cancer?

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer is a series of steps:

• Pelvic Exam: An examination of the abdomen to identify any abnormality.

• Imaging Tests: Ultrasound, CT scan, or MRI to examine the ovaries.

• Blood Tests: Screening for the level of CA-125, a protein marker that exists in ovarian cancer.

• Biopsy: Removal of tissue to test for cancer cells.

• Genetic Testing: To determine inherited mutations that increase the risk.

Proper and timely diagnosis will guarantee effective planning of treatment.

What are the Treatment Modalities of Ovarian Cancer?

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage and nature of cancer, and on the patient's overall health. Standard treatment modalities are:

• Surgery: Initial treatment, with an intent to remove as much of the tumor as possible.

• Total Abdominal Hysterectomy: Removal of uterus, ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the lymph nodes in the region.

• Debulking Surgery: Removes as much observable tumor as possible, usually followed by chemotherapy.

• Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy destroys cancer cells or prevents cancer cell growth with medication.

• Intravenous Chemotherapy: Given intravenously into a vein.

• Intraperitoneal Chemotherapy: Given within the abdominal space for more localized exposure.

• Targeted Therapy: This therapy focuses on targeting very specific molecules that assist cancer cell growth.

• PARP Inhibitors: Effective for cancer with BRCA Mutation.

• Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Prevents growth of blood vessels feeding tumors.

• Hormone Therapy: Blocks hormones from nourishing some forms of ovarian cancer.

• Estrogen Receptor Modulators: Prevents estrogen from stimulating cancer cell growth.

• Radiation Therapy: Uses high-energy beams to kill cancer cells. Although ovarian cancer patients rarely use this therapy, severe cases may incorporate it into their treatment plan.

Ovarian cancer is managed best by the team of gynecologic oncologists, surgeons, medical oncologists and other specialists who provide holistic care.

How can we Prevent Ovarian Cancer?

Although preventing ovarian cancer is not guaranteed, certain measures can help reduce the risk:

• Oral Contraceptives: Prolonged use may reduce risk.

• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Both are associated with a reduced risk.

• Genetic Counselling: For those having a family history or known genetic mutations.

• Regular Check-ups: Periodic gynecological check-ups for early identification.

Discussion about individual risk factors with a health care provider can help in decision-making about prevention and screening of ovarian cancer.

If you or someone you know is showing signs of ovarian cancer, don't delay.

Conclusion

Ovarian cancer is a malignant but treatable disease, particularly if it is diagnosed early and with the proper balance of experience and attention. Although a diagnosis may be frightening, advances in surgery, chemotherapy, and biologic therapy are raising hopes and improving survival rates for women. If you or a woman you know is at risk or has symptoms, don't delay seeking professional advice.

At our cutting-edge center in Noida, our gynecologic and oncology specialists strive to deliver personalized care with compassion and accuracy. Schedule a consultation today to regain control over your health at an affordable cost in Noida.

FAQs About Ovarian Cancer

Q1. Is it possible for ovarian cancer to occur even after menopause?
Ans: Yes. Ovarian cancer is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 60 years, and again, most of them are postmenopausal. While hormone levels fall after menopause, with increasing age, the risk for ovarian cancer grows, so check-ups are essential.

Q2. If my CA-125 is normal, can I still have ovarian cancer?
Ans: Yes. Although CA-125 is a useful marker, it does not necessarily increase in early ovarian cancer. There are some women with cancer who have normal CA-125, and there are some who have increased CA-125 without cancer. For this reason, doctors perform the test in conjunction with imaging and other procedures.

Q3. In what way does ovarian cancer impact fertility, and are options available to preserve it?
Ans: Treatment for ovarian cancer and its impact on fertility—surgery and chemotherapy, for instance—can have effects on fertility. However, for young women diagnosed with ovarian cancer at an early stage, options may include cryopreservation of eggs or embryos before treatment and fertility-sparing procedures.

Q4. Is chemotherapy always required for the treatment of ovarian cancer?
Ans: No. Chemotherapy depends on stage, grade, and tumor type. In extremely early-stage or low-grade tumors, surgery alone might be enough. Your oncology team will determine the optimum approach based on a complete pathology report.

Q5. Can lifestyle factors affect ovarian cancer recurrence risk?
Ans: Yes. Although no change in lifestyle can promise prevention, maintaining a healthy weight, a nutritious diet, exercise, and no smoking potentially lower the risk for recurrence and overall health during recovery.

Q6. Are the symptoms of ovarian cancer different from those of usual disorders such as PCOS or IBS?
Ans: Yes. Although there is a degree of overlap in symptoms such as bloating or pain in the pelvis, ovarian cancer symptoms tend to be more persistent and progressive. Unlike PCOS or IBS, ovarian cancer symptoms typically do not fluctuate with menstrual cycles or dietary changes.