Ovarian cancer is a silent and often deadly disease that affects thousands of women each year. As September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, it’s essential to raise awareness about the symptoms, treatment options, and the importance of early detection. We want to inform women in our community about the risks, when to get screened, and when the disease can escalate to a medical emergency.

Understanding Ovarian Cancer: Who is at Risk?

Ovarian cancer primarily affects women aged 50 and older, although it can occur in younger women as well. Several risk factors contribute to the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer, including:

• Family History: Women with a family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer are at a higher risk.
• Genetic Predisposition: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes significantly increase the risk of this cancer (“BRCA Mutations: Cancer Risk”).
• Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant, had their first full-term pregnancy after age 35, or have used hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause are at increased risk.
• Endometriosis: A condition where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, can also elevate the risk of this cancer (“Endometriosis and Cancer Risk”).

Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: What to Look Out For

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because its symptoms can be subtle and easily mistaken for other common conditions. However, persistent and unusual symptoms should never be ignored. Key symptoms include:

• Abdominal Bloating or Swelling: A noticeable increase in abdominal size or persistent bloating can be an early warning sign.
• Pelvic or Abdominal Pain: Persistent discomfort or pain in the pelvic or abdominal area is a concerning symptom.
• Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly: Changes in appetite, especially feeling full after eating small amounts, may indicate this cancer.
• Urinary Symptoms: An increased urgency or frequency of urination, without an infection, can be a symptom of this cancer

These symptoms can often be vague, but if they persist for more than a few weeks, it’s important to consult with a healthcare provider.

Screening and Early Detection: When and How to Get Checked

Early detection is vital for improving survival rates in cancer, but there is no standard screening test for the general population. However, women at high risk, especially those with a family history of cancer, should discuss personalized screening options with their healthcare providers.

• Pelvic Examination: Regular pelvic exams are essential for detecting any abnormalities in the ovaries.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): This imaging test uses sound waves to look at the ovaries and can detect masses, though it cannot determine if they are cancerous.
• CA-125 Blood Test: This test measures the level of CA-125, a protein that can be elevated in women with ovarian cancer. It is not a definitive test but can be used in conjunction with other diagnostics (American College of Obstetricians and Gynecologists).

Women with a family history of cancer or genetic predisposition should consider genetic counseling and testing for BRCA mutations, which can guide decisions about preventative measures.

Treatment Options for Ovarian Cancer

The treatment for this cancer typically involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. The approach depends on the stage of cancer at diagnosis:

• Surgery: The goal is to remove as much of the cancer as possible. This may involve removing one or both ovaries, the fallopian tubes, the uterus, and nearby lymph nodes.
• Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells, chemotherapy can also be administered before surgery in certain cases (American Cancer Society).

Newer treatments, such as targeted therapy and immunotherapy, are also being explored and may offer hope for improved outcomes in the future.

When Ovarian Cancer Becomes a Medical Emergency

Ovarian cancer can become a medical emergency if it leads to severe complications, such as:

• Bowel Obstruction: As ovarian tumors grow, they can block the intestines, causing severe pain, vomiting, and an inability to pass stool or gas.
• Ascites: The buildup of fluid in the abdomen can cause significant discomfort, difficulty breathing, and other severe symptoms.
• Severe Pain or Uncontrolled Symptoms: Any sudden, severe pain or rapidly worsening symptoms should prompt immediate medical attention (National Comprehensive Cancer Network).

At Rice Emergency Room, located conveniently in the Rice Village Shopping Center, we understand the urgency and complexity of ovarian cancer. Our Board-Certified Emergency Physicians are trained to provide rapid, compassionate care for women facing cancer-related emergencies. We are here to support you with the highest level of care, ensuring you receive the attention you need during critical moments. Our 24/7 radiology department offers ultrasound technology which is an important diagnostic tool in identifying reproductive cancers.

Early Detection Saves Lives

September’s Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month serves as a reminder to all women to stay vigilant about their health. Understanding the symptoms, knowing when to get screened, and recognizing when this cancer can escalate to an emergency are key to improving outcomes. If you or a loved one are experiencing symptoms or need emergency care, Rice Emergency Room is here to help. Don’t hesitate to seek medical attention—early detection and prompt treatment can save lives.

Works Cited

American Cancer Society. American Cancer Society, www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/treating/chemotherapy.html. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Cleveland Clinic. Cleveland Clinic, my.clevelandclinic.org/health/diseases/9559-ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Mayo Clinic. Reproductive History and Risk.” Mayo Clinic, www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20375941. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance. ovariancancer.org/about-ovarian-cancer/symptoms/pelvic-pain/. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

Radiological Society of North America. RadiologyInfo.org, www.radiologyinfo.org/en/info/us-ovarian-cancer. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.

National Comprehensive Cancer Network. NCCN Guidelines, www.nccn.org/patients/guidelines/content/PDF/ovarian-patient.pdf. Accessed 19 Aug. 2024.