Doctors reveal why ovarian cancer cases are increasing in India

Ovarian cancer is the third most common type of cancer among women in India. According to the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR), the age-adjusted incidence rate of ovarian cancer in India is estimated to be around 6.8 per 1,00,000 women.

Ovarian cancer happens when cells in the ovaries start growing out of control. They grow fast and can harm healthy tissue.

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However, due to the lack of widespread screening programs and the asymptomatic nature of the disease, many cases of ovarian cancer are not diagnosed until they have reached an advanced stage.

Dr Babita Bansal Singh, Senior Consultant, Radiation Oncology, Andromeda Cancer Hospital, Sonipat, said that the risk of ovarian cancer rises with age.

Other risk factors include obesity, a history of ovarian cancer in the family, never being pregnant and endometriosis.

The symptoms of ovarian cancer include sudden or frequent urges to urinate, the sensation of pressure, swelling or pain in the pelvic or abdominal region, having trouble eating or feeling full quickly, feeling of a tumour or lump in the lower abdomen, digestive issues like bloating, constipation, or gas, sudden unexplained weight loss or gain. The risk factors for ovarian cancer are obesity, a history of ovarian cancer in the family, never being pregnant and endometriosis. (Photo: Getty Images)

But despite these symptoms, the detection and diagnosis of ovarian cancer isn't widespread and ovarian cancer has been called a "silent killer."

Dr Priyanka Suhag, Consultant, Dept of Obstetrics & Gynaecology at the CK Birla Hospital, Delhi, said that this is because symptoms are often detected when the cancer has advanced.

"Ovarian cancer is often called the silent killer because it typically does not cause noticeable symptoms in its early stages. As a result, many cases are not diagnosed until the disease has reached an advanced stage," said Dr Suhag.

She added that understanding the reasons behind "asymptomatic ovarian cancer" is crucial for early detection and improved outcomes.

Dr Singh said that the rise in ovarian cancer in India is because of several reasons.

While inactive lifestyles and improper eating habits account for a majority of reasons, delayed childbearing is another risk factor.

"Delayed childbearing, which is defined by increasing age at first childbirth, is a major risk factor for ovarian cancer. The condition is made worse by exposure to chemicals and pollutants in the environment," said Dr Singh.

Some of the major markers shown by Dr Suhag are:

Genetic mutations: Inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 significantly increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

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Age: The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, with the highest incidence occurring in women over the age of 50.

Reproductive history: Factors such as never having been pregnant, early onset of menstruation, and late menopause can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Delayed childbearing, which is defined by increasing age at first childbirth, is a major risk factor for ovarian cancer. (Photo: Getty Images)

Hormonal factors: Conditions such as polycystic ovary syndrome (PCOS) and endometriosis may increase the risk of ovarian cancer.

With enhanced diagnostic methods and increased awareness, more cases are being detected, leading to an increase in the incidence of ovarian cancer, the doctors said.

Dr Singh said that over 25,000 new cases are identified each year and this is causing a "financial burden to the medical system".

The urgent need for efficient screening, prevention, and treatment programs is required.

Published By: Daphne Clarance Published On: May 8, 2024