Here’s a detailed look at the 5 early signs of ovarian cancer that everyone should be aware of.Dr Karthik S D S, Consultant - Surgical Oncology, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Cancer Care & Advanced Research (SVICCAR) - A unit of Tata Cancer Care Foundation, said “In my experience, most cases of ovarian cancer occur between the ages 50 to 70 years.
Breastfeeding and use of oral contraceptives reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.
"One of the most common and earliest signs of ovarian cancer is persistent bloating.
According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 20% of women with early-stage ovarian cancer experience unexplained pelvic or abdominal pain.
"Women need to watch out for these early signs such as bloating, early satiety, pelvic discomfort, fatigue, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and weight loss.
Persistent bloating
Image: Canva
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Image: Canva
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Frequent urination or urgency
Changes in bowel habits
How to identify the signs of ovarian cancer early
Ovarian cancer, often termed the “silent killer,” is a condition that frequently goes undetected until it has advanced to later stages. However, understanding and recognising the early warning signs can significantly improve outcomes and survival rates. This type of cancer accounts for 3.34% (24015) of all cancer-related fatalities in India, making it the primary cause of mortality for Indian women as per a report by ICMR . Here’s a detailed look at the 5 early signs of ovarian cancer that everyone should be aware of.Dr Karthik S D S, Consultant - Surgical Oncology, Sri Venkateswara Institute of Cancer Care & Advanced Research (SVICCAR) - A unit of Tata Cancer Care Foundation, said “In my experience, most cases of ovarian cancer occur between the ages 50 to 70 years. The most common risk factors are early menarche, late menopause, not bearing a child (nulliparity). Breastfeeding and use of oral contraceptives reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer. The majority of women complain of vague and non-specific menstrual, pelvic or abdominal symptoms."One of the most common and earliest signs of ovarian cancer is persistent bloating. This isn't the type of bloating that comes and goes with a heavy meal or during menstrual cycles. Instead, it's a constant feeling of fullness and abdominal swelling that doesn't subside over time. A study published in the Journal of Clinical Oncology found that women who reported ongoing bloating were more likely to be diagnosed with ovarian cancer. Women often dismiss this symptom as a minor gastrointestinal issue, but it's essential to monitor the duration and frequency of bloating. If it persists for more than two weeks and is not related to diet or hormonal changes, seeking medical advice is crucial.Chronic pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen is another early sign of ovarian cancer. This pain can vary in intensity from mild discomfort to severe cramping. According to the American Cancer Society, nearly 20% of women with early-stage ovarian cancer experience unexplained pelvic or abdominal pain. This pain is often mistaken for menstrual cramps or a sign of other benign conditions like ovarian cysts. The key indicator here is the persistence of pain. If you find yourself reaching for painkillers regularly to alleviate ongoing discomfort, it’s important to consult a doctor for further evaluation.A noticeable decrease in appetite and the feeling of fullness after consuming only a small amount of food can be an early warning sign of ovarian cancer. This symptom, known as early satiety, is often overlooked as a minor digestive issue. Research conducted by the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition revealed that women who experience early satiety consistently over several weeks should be evaluated for ovarian cancer, especially if they also have other related symptoms like bloating or abdominal pain. It’s important not to ignore changes in eating habits, particularly if they persist.Frequent urination and a sudden, urgent need to urinate can be early indicators of ovarian cancer. This occurs because the growing tumour can put pressure on the bladder, mimicking symptoms of a urinary tract infection. A study published in the British Journal of Cancer found that changes in urinary habits were reported by nearly 30% of women with early-stage ovarian cancer. If you notice a significant increase in the frequency of urination or experience urinary urgency without an infection or other obvious cause, it’s important to seek medical advice.Ovarian cancer can also cause unexplained changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhoea. The proximity of the ovaries to the intestines means that a growing tumour can easily affect bowel function. According to a review by the Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance, digestive issues that do not respond to standard treatments or persist for several weeks should be taken seriously. Women often attribute these symptoms to diet changes or stress, but it’s crucial to consider the possibility of a more serious underlying issue if these changes are persistent."Women need to watch out for these early signs such as bloating, early satiety, pelvic discomfort, fatigue, changes in bowel or bladder habits, and weight loss. Women over 50 years should be aware of these signs and consult their physician or oncologist if they experience any of them. Early detection through clinical examination, ultrasound scan, and blood tests is crucial and can lead to higher probability of cure," added Dr Karthik.
