Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of death due to cancer for American women. It is estimated to affect 1 out of every 57 women. Ovarian cancer can generally treatable if it is caught in the early stages. however, it is estimated that only 24% of all cases of ovarian cancer are detected early enough. Like with other forms of cancer, survival rates decrease over time. It is therefore very important for women to learn the early symptoms of ovarian cancer.



During the summer of 2007, the American Cancer Society and other similar organizations published findings that symptoms such as unexpected bloating, gas, or a feeling of fullness; fatigue, menstrual abnormalities, abdominal or pelvic pain, sudden urge and/or frequent urination and sudden changes in food habits such as difficulty in consuming food or feeling full too quickly may be early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

It is often difficult to detect ovarian cancer as no reliable medical screening currently exists that can provide an early check. Women at risk of having ovarian cancer should stay aware of possible early symptoms of ovarian cancer so that it could be diagnosed immediately. Although early symptoms of ovarian cancer, which can include menstrual irregularities or pelvic pain, do not definitely point to cancer, women should learn to recognize these symptoms early.

If you experience sudden or unusual symptoms, visit your doctor immediately. Follow-up with transvaginal ultrasound, bimanual pelvic exam and a Ca125 blood test may be required to rule out early symptoms of ovarian cancer. At high risk to develop ovarian cancer are women who have been found to have BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutation, did not use birth control pills, have never been pregnant, and who were found to be afflicted with breast cancer before they reach the age of 50.

Some women have higher risks of contracting ovarian cancer. Among the classes of women at elevated risk are Ashkenazi Jews, women with at least two relatives diagnosed with ovarian cancer, those exposed to fertility drugs, and those over 50 years of age. For these women, it is even more important to be monitored regularly for early symptoms of ovarian cancer.

Regular gynecology checkups are vital for every woman. Some symptoms are common to many conditions and illnesses. If the symptoms persist for longer than two to three weeks, a medical advice is highly recommended. For instance, many of the same early signs of ovarian cancer are similar to those experienced with ovarian cysts or irritable bowel syndrome. To be sure, visit your doctor for a thorough checkup and follow up.

It is very important for women to know the early symptoms of ovarian cancer, in order to stop this deadly disease in its tracks. Since more than 6% of cancer deaths in women are a result of ovarian cancer, women and their doctors must remain vigilant at all times.