Ovarian cancer, often referred to as the "silent killer," is the seventh most common cancer affecting women, and the fourth most common gynecologic cancer worldwide. This type of cancer is known for its late diagnosis and non-specific symptoms, which highlights the importance of raising public awareness of this type of cancer, especially during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
"This disease is characterized by its ability to go unnoticed until it is in advanced stages, which makes its treatment more challenging and significantly reduces survival rates," says Dr. Everardo Gutiérrez R., Gynecologic Oncologist at Panama Cancer Clinic.
According to Globocan data (2022), ovarian cancer accounts for approximately 3.4% of all cancers in women and is responsible for about 206 thousand deaths each year. The incidence and mortality of ovarian cancer vary significantly by region, being higher in developed countries.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer can affect any woman, but certain factors increase the risk of developing it. These factors include:
Advanced age
Most cases are diagnosed in women over the age of 50, and the risk increases significantly after the age of 60.
Family history
Having a family history of ovarian, breast or colorectal cancer can double or even triple the risk. Ovarian cancer may run in some families. The risk of developing this disease is increased if your mother, sister or daughter has had, or has, ovarian cancer. This risk rises even more the greater the number of family members affected by this type of cancer. In addition, the risk can also come from the paternal side of the family.
Genetic mutations
Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes are associated with a significantly increased risk of ovarian cancer. It is estimated that in women with BRCA1, the lifetime risk of ovarian cancer is between 35% and 70%. This means that if 100 women had the BRCA1 mutation, between 35 and 70 of them would develop ovarian cancer. For women with BRCA2 mutations, the risk has been estimated to be between 10% and 30% at age 70, according to data from the American Cancer Society.
Reproductive and hormonal factors
Women who have never had children or who had their first child after the age of 35 are at increased risk. In addition, the use of hormonal therapies after menopause may slightly increase the risk.
Lifestyle
Obesity, lack of physical activity and a diet rich in saturated fats are associated with an increased risk of ovarian cancer.
You may be interested in: Video on ovarian cancerAlthough reducing or controlling risk factors has significant advantages for the health of patients, we cannot speak 100% of prevention. Prevention of ovarian cancer is complicated by the lack of clear early symptoms and the inexistence of effective screening methods for women without risk factors, Dr. Gutiérrez points out.
However, several strategies have been identified that could help reduce the risk:
- Oral contraceptive use: Women who have used oral contraceptives (birth control pills) have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. The risk is lower the longer the pills are used. This lower risk continues for many years after stopping the pills.
- Healthy lifestyle: Maintaining an adequate body weight, avoiding tobacco use and excess alcohol, and adopting a balanced diet rich in fruits and vegetables can help reduce the risk.
- Pregnancy and lactation: A woman who has been pregnant and continued with the pregnancy to term before the age of 26 years has a lower risk of ovarian cancer compared to a woman who has not completed the pregnancy. The risk decreases with each completed pregnancy. Breastfeeding may reduce the risk even further.
Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed in advanced stages because of its nonspecific symptoms such as abdominal distention, pelvic pain, urinary urgency and rapid satiety. These symptoms are often mistaken for other, less serious conditions, which can delay diagnosis, Dr. Gutierrez highlights. "To improve outcomes, it is essential to promote awareness of these symptoms, seek help early for these abnormalities and not downplay the importance of annual gynecologic checkups."
There is no universally recommended screening method for ovarian cancer in average-risk women. However, for those at elevated genetic risk (such as BRCA mutation carriers), active surveillance with periodic transvaginal ultrasounds and measurements of CA-125, a tumor marker in the blood, may be considered.
In this "Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month" we have a crucial opportunity to educate women about the risks, symptoms and importance of early detection of this disease. As a Gynecologic Oncologist I play a pivotal role in this mission, always trying to provide evidence-based information and support to patients at risk. Increasing awareness and understanding of ovarian cancer can help reduce its global impact, saving lives through early detection and treatment.
Ante cualquier síntoma o señal de alarma, o si simplemente desea conocer sus riesgos y opciones de prevención, no dude en agendar su cita. En Panama Cancer Clinic contamos con todo un equipo médico capacitado para brindarle la mejor asesoría en oncología, nutrición, psicología y manejo de su salud integral.
