Advanced Ovarian Cancer
Advanced Ovarian Cancer: Causes, Symptoms, and Treatment
Advanced ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that is found mainly in the ovaries, but may spread to other areas of the body, such as the lungs, lymph nodes, and liver. It is the fourth most common gynecological cancer in women and one of the most deadly forms of the disease.
Ovarian cancer can be divided into four stages:
- Stage I: Early ovarian cancer is confined to the ovary.
- Stage II: Cancer has spread to other pelvic structures.
- Stage III: Cancer has spread outside the pelvis to the abdomen and/or lymph nodes.
- Stage IV: Cancer has spread to distant organs such as the lungs, liver, brain, and/or bone.
Advanced ovarian cancer occurs when the cancer has progressed beyond stage III, or when it has recurred following treatment. While the causes of ovarian cancer are unknown, it is believed that genetic and environmental factors can increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease.
The symptoms of advanced ovarian cancer can vary from woman to woman, but usually include:
- Abdominal pain or swelling
- Bloating
- Changes in bowel habits (diarrhea, constipation, or urgency)
- Fatigue
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Indigestion or feeling of fullness
- Loss of appetite
- Nausea and vomiting
- Menstrual changes
- Pain during intercourse
It is important to recognize that these symptoms can also be caused by other medical conditions. Therefore, if you have any of these symptoms, you should talk to your doctor as soon as possible for proper diagnosis and treatment.
Treatment for advanced ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the type of cancer cells present, and the patient’s overall health, age and injury. Options for treating advanced ovarian cancer include surgery, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, and radiation therapy. The goal of treatment is to kill the cancer cells and reduce the symptoms.
It is important to note that early detection is key to treating advanced ovarian cancer. Eating a balanced diet, maintaining a healthy weight, and getting regular exercise can help reduce a woman’s risk of developing the disease. Women should also speak to their healthcare provider about getting regular Pap tests and gynecological checkups.