By Admin 
Early Signs Of Ovarian CancerOvarian cancer is the third most common gynecological cancer in the world and one of the leading causes of cancer death among women in the United States. It is often called a silent killer, because in the initial stages it grows almost without making any noise and by the time it is detected, the disease has progressed significantly. According to global data for the year 2024, about 3.24 lakh new cases occurred in the world and about 2.06 lakh women died due to this disease.
In most cases, this cancer starts from a malignant tumor forming in the ovary. Especially epithelial ovarian cancer, which is caused by rapid growth of abnormal cells. Overall, a woman’s lifetime risk of developing ovarian cancer is considered to be about 1.3 percent, but this risk can increase several fold due to age, family history and certain genetic mutations. This is why timely identification becomes very important.
Why is early detection so difficult?
The problem is that in the early stages, ovarian cancer gives such symptoms which women often ignore, considering them a minor problem. This is why, according to the Mayo Clinic, about 75 percent of cases are detected in stage 3 or 4, when the cancer has spread beyond the ovary. Because the initial symptoms usually appear like flatulence, early filling of stomach, mild stomach pain or changing digestive habits, which are often dismissed as normal. That’s why identification happens late. On top of that, there is no regular screening test available for this disease.
Why is ovarian cancer detected so late?
The ovaries are deep within the body, hidden behind many organs. Small tumors are not easily felt and early cancer often does not cause any obvious symptoms. By the time symptoms start appearing, the disease has spread many times. For this reason, only 20 to 25 percent of patients’ cancer is caught in the early stages. As the disease progresses, the chances of survival decrease significantly.
What does Mayo Clinic’s new research say?
An important Mayo Clinic study came out this year, showing that the cells lining the fallopian tubes, which are now believed to be the initial source of ovarian cancer, begin to show subtle changes in the very early stages of the disease. The woman involved in the study was only 22 years old, but she had genetic mutations that increase the risk of cancer. The scan showed only a simple cyst, but on deeper testing, pre-cancerous changes were found in the cells.
Which common symptoms can be early signs of ovarian cancer?
Experts say that the symptoms which most women dismiss as minor problems, can actually be warning signs. In this-
- persistent bloating or heaviness in the stomach
- Feeling full after eating something
- Mild pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area
- back pain, especially lower back
- Constipation, diarrhea or change in urinary habits
- Fatigue, weakness, sudden change in weight
Because these symptoms seem like everyday problems, it is very easy to take them lightly. But if these persist for two-three weeks continuously, it is necessary to consult a doctor.
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Disclaimer: This information is based on research studies and expert opinion. Do not consider this as a substitute for medical advice. Before adopting any new activity or exercise, please consult your doctor or relevant specialist.
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