Ovarian Cancer: The Silent Killer And What Every Woman Should Know About It

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Things to know about ovarian cancer

There is no exact or proven cause for ovarian cancer. All women are at risk.

Cysts may develop cancer, mainly in ovaries.

Pap tests do notdetect ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is one of the most aggressive cancers, with a high death rate.

Over 140,000 women die from ovarian cancer each year.

Women often ignore symptoms, and thus do not get diagnosed until they are already at an advanced stage of the cancer.

Risk factors
Childbearing status

The less children you have, the greater your chance of getting ovarian cancer. Having multiple children and breastfeeding has been found to decrease your risk.
Family history

If someone in your family has ever contracted cancer of any kind, your risk may be higher.
Age

Women diagnosed with ovarian cancer are most often between 55 and 60 years of age.
Weight

Women who are obese have an increased risk of getting ovarian cancer and a higher risk of dying from it.
Symptoms

Very heavy bleeding

Increase in abdominal size or persistent bloating

A loss of appetite or feeling full quickly

Very often menstrual cycles will be irregular and appear or disappear suddenly

Feeling tired and having very little energy

Digestive problems (which is why there is so much confusion and difficulty making a diagnosis in many cases)

Feelings of pressure or pain in lower back and belly

If you are experiencing two or more of these symptoms or have any of the risk factors mentioned above, it is imperative that you visit your doctor.

How can you prevent ovarian cancer?

The answer is simple: Live a healthy lifestyle. Observe and know your body, and pay close attention to any changes it goes through. Cut out canned foods, preservatives and anything containing high amounts of fat from your diet. Take up a sport or create an exercise routine. Try to keep your weight at a healthy level. And if possible, have children and breastfeed.

How can you detect it?

There are currently several tests such as MRI, ultrasound, blood tests, laparoscopy and even a particular type of pregnancy test that can aid in early recognition and intervention of this cancer. With any of these tests, ovarian cancer can be diagnosed in the early stages of development (Remember, as mentioned above, Pap tests do notdetect ovarian cancer).

What if you get diagnosed with ovarian cancer?

First, take a deep breath and feel grateful — grateful because having a diagnosis means you have options. It is much better than catching it too late or not catching it at all. Also, remember that cancer is not a death sentence. And an early diagnosis is a blessing.

Most importantly, do not give up. Get rid of any negative feelings or an attitude of defeat. Believe me, that will not help anything. Instead, battle your cancer with a determination to win. Fight it with chemotherapy or surgery coupled with a good attitude, faith and much hope.

This article is an translation and adaption of the original article, “Cáncer de ovario, otro asesino silencioso. 6 señales y 3 datos importantes.”