Ovarian cancer is a significant global health concern, with approximately 324,400 new cases and 206,800 deaths reported worldwide in 2022.
Global five-year survival rates remain low— often below 50%. This is far lower than survival rates for breast cancer, which commonly surpass 90%
Risk factors
Family history matters: a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer can elevate your risk.
Inherited gene variants like BRCA1/BRCA2 and conditions such as Lynch syndrome are especially noted as risk factors.
Other recognized risk factors include advancing age, endometriosis, long-term use of hormone replacement therapy, smoking, and obesity.
Signs and symptoms
Because there’s no effective screening test, awareness of the symptoms of ovarian cancer is vital. These include:
• Unexplained fatigue
• Unintentional weight changes
• Bowel habit changes such as constipation
• Persistent bloating or increased abdominal size
• Abdominal or pelvic pain
• Loss of appetite or feeling full quickly
• Frequent or urgent urination
What to do if you experience symptoms
Although these symptoms may be signs of less serious conditions, if they persist it’s important to see your doctor. They may recommend:
A general and pelvic examination
A pelvic ultrasound (ideally transvaginal)
Blood tests including CA125
Possibly a CT scan.
If you're unconvinced of their conclusions or your symptoms continue, seeking a second opinion is perfectly reasonable. It can help to specifically express to your doctor that you wish to definitively rule out ovarian cancer as the cause of these symptoms.
Remember:
You know your body best. Stay alert to persistent changes, trust your instincts, and advocate for further investigation or a second opinion if something doesn’t feel right.
Sources:
The Lancet: https://www.thelancet.com/journals/eclinm/article/PIIS2589-5370%2824%2900562-5/fulltext
World Cancer Research Fund: https://www.wcrf.org/preventing-cancer/cancer-statistics/ovarian-cancer-statistics/
World Ovarian Cancer Coalition: https://worldovariancancercoalition.org/seb-study-electronic-press-kit/
International Journal of Gynecological Cancer: https://www.international-journal-of-gynecological-cancer.com/article/S1048-891X%2824%2902278-3/fulltext
American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists (ACOG): https://www.acog.org/womens-health/faqs/ovarian-cancer
Am-Sino
International Women's Health
The Women's Health Center offers personalized, comprehensive health management plans tailored for each woman throughout her life cycle.
Dedicated to providing the latest in international medical standards, the comprehensive health services cover the needs of women of all ages:
Adolescent health and education
Endocrine disorders; premature ovarian failure
Infertility and high-risk pregnancies
Preconception preparation & genetic counselling
Menopausal and aging health management
Urinary incontinence, pelvic floor dysfunction
Gynecological conditions (cervical, ovarian, uterine)
Sexual health & sexual dysfunction
Adolescent health and education
Aesthetic medicine
Mental health management
The Am-Sino Women's Health Center follows a multidisciplinary collaborative model, providing comprehensive health management from prevention to treatment. Regardless of your stage of life, we will tailor a personalized health plan for you, providing exclusive care and support.
