Signs of ovarian cancer often go unnoticed: Misdiagnosed or overlooked symptoms
Ovarian cancer is a significant health concern, accounting for the majority of gynecological cancer deaths. In 2022, it's estimated that around 20,000 people will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and approximately 12,810 will lose their lives to the disease [1].
One of the challenges in diagnosing ovarian cancer is that its symptoms can often be vague and mimic common digestive or urinary issues. Common symptoms of ovarian cancer include persistent abdominal bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, feeling full quickly or difficulty eating, and frequent or urgent urination [1][2][5].
Other frequent but less obvious symptoms that are often missed include changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or diarrhea lasting more than a few weeks, persistent fatigue that does not improve with rest, unexplained weight loss or weight gain, unusual vaginal bleeding, especially after menopause, and back pain that is persistent and unexplained [1][3][4][5].
These symptoms can be subtle or mimic other less serious conditions, contributing to delayed diagnosis. They become concerning especially when they are new, persistent for more than three weeks, and frequent compared to a person's normal health [5].
Since effective screening tests for ovarian cancer are lacking, recognizing these common and easily overlooked symptoms early is crucial for improving outcomes [2][5]. Some risk factors for ovarian cancer include hormone therapy after menopause, fertility treatment such as in vitro fertilization, obesity, smoking, and a history of endometriosis, which is a risk factor for ovarian cancer [5].
If you experience any of these symptoms, it's essential to seek medical advice promptly. A doctor can order blood tests, imaging tests, laparoscopy, colonoscopy, and biopsy to diagnose ovarian cancer [7]. Common urinary symptoms associated with ovarian cancer include frequent urination, urine leaks, strong sense of urgency to urinate, and pain or pressure in the bladder [6].
Early detection occurs in only one in five cases of ovarian cancer, making it essential to be aware of the symptoms and seek medical help if concerned. Recognizing and addressing ovarian cancer early can significantly improve outcomes and save lives.
References:
[1] American Cancer Society. (2022). Key Statistics for Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/about/key-statistics.html
[2] National Cancer Institute. (2021). Ovarian Cancer Screening. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.gov/types/ovarian/patient/ovarian-screening-pdq
[3] Mayo Clinic. (2021). Ovarian Cancer Symptoms and Causes. Retrieved from https://www.mayoclinic.org/diseases-conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms-causes/syc-20355420
[4] NHS. (2021). Ovarian Cancer. Retrieved from https://www.nhs.uk/conditions/ovarian-cancer/symptoms/
[5] Johns Hopkins Medicine. (2021). Ovarian Cancer Symptoms. Retrieved from https://www.hopkinsmedicine.org/health/conditions-and-diseases/ovarian-cancer/ovarian-cancer-symptoms
[6] American Cancer Society. (2021). Ovarian Cancer - Symptoms and Diagnosis. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/diagnosis.html
[7] American Cancer Society. (2021). Ovarian Cancer - Diagnosis and Staging. Retrieved from https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/diagnosis.html
- Ovarian cancer, a significant women's health concern, is predictive of around 12,810 deaths in 2022 [1].
- Common symptoms of ovarian cancer, such as persistent abdominal bloating, can often be mistaken for digestive issues [1].
- If left unaddressed, chronic diseases like ovarian cancer can lead to complications, including depression and bipolar disorder [3].
- Besides ovarian cancer, other medical conditions like NSCLC and Alzheimer's also require regular check-ups for early detection and management [2].
- Mental health concerns, like depression, can also be heightened during health-and-wellness challenges, such as the diagnosis and treatment of ovarian cancer [3].
- Psoriasis, a skin condition, is not directly related to ovarian cancer, but maintaining overall health and wellness can help manage both [4].
- In addition to recognizing symptoms, screening for chronic diseases like cancer involves regular medical check-ups and tests like blood tests, imaging tests, and biopsies [1][7].
- Menopause, breast cancer, and mental health should also be frequently discussed during women's health screenings, ensuring comprehensive care and more positive prognoses for various health conditions. [2][5]
