Medical Edge Newspaper Column

Ovarian Cancer

Jan. 22, 2006
READERS:
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women. It causes more deaths than all other cancers of the female reproductive system combined.

A woman's risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, peaking in the early 70s. Having had breast cancer or having a family history of breast or ovarian cancer puts a woman at increased risk.

Until recently, doctors thought that early-stage ovarian cancer rarely produced symptoms. But evidence has shown that some women have signs and symptoms before the disease has spread.

The symptoms of ovarian cancer tend to mimic those of other conditions, including digestive and urinary disorders. The key is if the symptoms persist or worsen.

Here are the common warning signs:

• Abdominal or pelvic pressure, discomfort or pain
• Persistent indigestion, gas or nausea
• Feeling full even after a light meal
• Unexplained changes in bowel habits, including diarrhea or constipation
• Abdominal swelling or bloating, which can cause your clothing to feel tight
• Changes in bladder habits, including a frequent or urgent need to urinate
• Loss of appetite
• Unexplained weight loss or gain, especially in the abdominal area
• Pain during intercourse

Less common signs include a persistent lack of energy and low back pain.

See your doctor if you have persistent signs and symptoms for two or more weeks.