(Image: Canva)In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in the incidence of ovarian cancer among younger women.
Traditionally considered a disease affecting postmenopausal women, ovarian cancer is now increasingly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s.
Pelvic or abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or abdomen can be caused by the tumour pressing on nearby organs or nerves.
Menstrual changes: Irregular periods or postmenopausal bleeding can be a sign of hormonal changes caused by ovarian cancer.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Women who have given birth and breastfed have a reduced risk of ovarian cancer.
Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or abdomen can be caused by the tumour pressing on nearby organs or nerves. (Image: Canva)
In recent years, there has been a concerning rise in the incidence of ovarian cancer among younger women. Traditionally considered a disease affecting postmenopausal women, ovarian cancer is now increasingly diagnosed in women in their 30s and 40s. This shift is attributed to a combination of factors including lifestyle changes, genetic predispositions, and delayed childbearing.
Early signs of ovarian cancer
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Abdominal bloating: Persistent swelling or bloating of the abdomen may occur due to fluid accumulation or a growing mass, says gynaecologist Ananya Mehta from Harmony Health hospital. Unlike temporary bloating, this symptom is persistent and does not go away.
Pelvic or abdominal pain: Discomfort or pain in the pelvic region or abdomen can be caused by the tumour pressing on nearby organs or nerves.
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly: This can happen when the tumour grows and puts pressure on the stomach, leading to a decreased appetite and feeling full after eating only a small amount.
Urinary symptoms: Increased urgency or frequency of urination can occur if the tumour presses on the bladder, reducing its capacity, says Mehta.
Fatigue: Unusual tiredness or lack of energy can be a general symptom of cancer, as the body's resources are being used to fight the disease.
Upset stomach or indigestion: Persistent gastrointestinal issues like indigestion, nausea, or bloating can be related to ovarian cancer, though they are common in many less serious conditions.
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Back pain: Unexplained lower back pain might occur if the tumor spreads to the back or due to fluid accumulation.
Menstrual changes: Irregular periods or postmenopausal bleeding can be a sign of hormonal changes caused by ovarian cancer.
Pain during intercourse: Discomfort or pain during sexual activity can result from tumours pressing on reproductive organs or causing inflammation.
Constipation: Persistent constipation or changes in bowel habits can occur if the tumor is pressing on the intestines.
These symptoms are often subtle and can be easily mistaken for more common, less serious conditions, says Mehta.
Preventive measures
Oral contraceptives: Long-term use of birth control pills can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer. Studies suggest that using them for five or more years can lower risk by about 50 percent.
Pregnancy and breastfeeding: Women who have given birth and breastfed have a reduced risk of ovarian cancer. The risk decreases with each full-term pregnancy and further decreases with breastfeeding.
Surgical options: Women with a high genetic risk (such as those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations) may opt for prophylactic surgeries, such as removing the ovaries and fallopian tubes (salpingo-oophorectomy), to significantly lower their risk.
Regular screening: While no standard screening exists for the general population, high-risk women can benefit from regular pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and blood tests for the CA-125 marker, which can help detect cancer early, says Mehta.
Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining a healthy diet, engaging in regular exercise, and avoiding smoking are general cancer-preventive measures. A healthy lifestyle supports overall well-being and can reduce the risk of various cancers.
Genetic counseling and testing: Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer should consider genetic counseling. Testing can determine if they carry mutations that increase their risk, allowing for more informed decisions about preventive measures.
