Let’s Talk About Ovarian Cancer

September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Here’s what you need to know.

Approximately 21,000 women are expected to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year with most women diagnosed over the age of 60. Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths of women, meaning its survival rate is lower than that of other cancers that affect women. This is sometimes due to late diagnosis as the symptoms are often common symptoms and benign. The causes of ovarian cancer are not known.

What are the risk factors for ovarian cancer? Risks factors include but are not limited to age (middle-aged or older); having a family history of ovarian cancer, breast cancer, or colorectal cancer, and inherited gene mutations.

What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer? The most common symptoms include bloating, pelvic pain or pressure, trouble eating/feeling full quickly, and urgency or frequency with urination. If these symptoms are new and persistent, see your doctor.

What can I do to prevent ovarian cancer? There is currently no way to prevent ovarian cancer.

How can I reduce my risk of ovarian cancer?

• Know your family history.

• Discuss genetic testing with your doctor if you are at risk.

• Discuss risk reduction options with your doctor.

For more information see: The website of The Center for Disease Control here, and website of The National Cancer Institute here.