Ovarian cancer constitutes the eighth most prevalent cancer among women globally, accounting for approximately 3.7% of all cancer cases and 4.7% of cancer-related fatalities in 2020.

Before the early 2000s, ovarian cancer incidence was more prevalent in northern Europe and North America. Since then, there has been a shift, with rates decreasing in these regions and increasing in certain areas of Eastern Europe and Asia.

Despite the challenges posed by late-stage diagnosis and the potential for metastasis, advancements in treatment have significantly improved outcomes for patients with ovarian cancer.

These advancements offer hope for improved survival rates and a better quality of life for those affected by ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer develops when abnormal cells within the ovaries or fallopian tubes proliferate uncontrollably.

The ovaries, two round, walnut-shaped organs within the female reproductive system, are responsible for egg production during the reproductive years.

The ability to completely remove ovarian cancer depends on several factors, primarily the stage of the cancer at diagnosis. Generally, early stages of ovarian cancer (stage I and II) have a better prognosis than advanced stages (stage III, IV).

• Early Stage Ovarian Cancer
  Early detection of ovarian cancer offers a promising outlook. When caught early, there’s a strong possibility that the cancer can be successfully treated through surgery.This often involves removing the affected ovary and fallopian tube, sometimes along with the uterus. In some cases chemotherapy may follow surgery to eliminate any remaining cancer cells and reduce the risk of recurrence.
• Advanced Stage Ovarian Cancer
  In advanced stages, ovarian cancer can be effectively managed. The treatment aims to shrink tumours, control the disease’s progression, and alleviate symptoms.While complete removal of all cancer cells may be difficult, surgery can often target the main tumour and visible secondary growths.Additional treatments like chemotherapy can help address any remaining cancer cells, providing a path toward improved outcomes and increasing patient comfort.This approach can significantly improve quality of life and potentially extend survival time for patients.

While successful surgery is a significant step, it’s important to remain vigilant as there is a possibility of recurrence.

However, with regular monitoring and follow-up care, healthcare professionals can detect any changes early on and implement the appropriate treatment plans for you.

Symptoms and Complications

Ovarian cancer is often referred to as the “silent killer” because it can progress without causing noticeable symptoms in its early stages.

However, as the cancer grows, it may be attributed to more common symptoms:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling (often the first symptom and can persist)
• Back pain
• Changes in bowel habits (e.g. constipation, diarrhoea, or a feeling of fullness even after eating a small meal)
• Dull of sharp pain in the pelvic
• Fatigue
• Frequent urination or urgency
• Unexplained weight loss

Ovarian cancer and its treatments can cause a number of complications to arise depending on the cancer type, stage, and chosen treatment. These include:

Despite the potential complications, it’s important to remember that many of these complications can be effectively managed with the proper support and medical care.

Diagnosis and Stages

If you have symptoms that could indicate ovarian cancer, your doctor may recommend tests or scans to identify cysts, tumours, or other abnormalities. These may include:

• Physical examinations
  Doctors will check your abdomen for lumps and perform a vaginal examination (via transvaginal imaging).
• Blood tests
  Your doctor will also conduct blood tests to check for CA125, a common tumour marker for ovarian cancer.
• Pelvic ultrasound, CT scan, and PET scan
  These scans create images to detect cancer and its spread.
• Colonoscopy
  Colonoscopy might be performed to rule out bowel issues.
• Biopsy
  While these tests can reveal abnormalities, a biopsy is necessary for a definitive cancer diagnosis.

Cancer staging helps doctors determine the most effective treatment and make a prognosis, which is a prediction of the disease’s progression and the patient’s recovery chances.

Ovarian cancer is staged from 1 to 4, with stage 1 being the least advanced and stage 4 the most.

• Stage I: Cancer is only in the ovaries.
• Stage II: Cancer has grown outside the ovaries and is growing within the pelvis.
• Stage III: Cancer has spread outside the pelvis into the abdominal cavity or to lymph nodes.
• Stage IV: Cancer has spread to other body organs some distance away from the ovaries, such as the liver or lungs.

How is Ovarian Cancer Treated?

The treatment for ovarian cancer depends on several factors, including the stage of the cancer and your overall health, the location of the tumour, and your wishes. Here are some treatment options:

Don’t let ovarian cysts go undiagnosed. Read this article on Ovarian Cysts: Symptoms, Types, Prevention & Treatment to learn more.

Resources and Support

Living with ovarian cancer can be a challenging journey, but it’s important to remember that you’re not alone.

Numerous resources and support systems are available to help you and your caregivers navigate this challenging journey.

Local and National Support Groups

In Malaysia, patients can find support and connection through local and national organisations like the National Cancer Society Malaysia or Ovarian Cancer Malaysia, which offer in-person support groups.

Education Materials and Workshop

Staying informed about ovarian cancer is essential for your health. Educational resources and support groups can provide valuable information about the disease, its prevention, and treatment options.

This knowledge can empower you to make informed decisions and take proactive steps to manage your ovarian cancer journey.

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