metastatic Ovarian cancer
What is Metastatic Ovarian Cancer?
Metastatic ovarian cancer is an advanced stage of ovarian cancer. It is an aggressive form of the disease in which the cancer has spread beyond the original location in the ovaries to other areas of the body. The cancer cells can spread to nearby organs, such as the bladder or rectum, or to other areas of the abdomen and pelvis, including the peritoneal cavity and lymph nodes. In some cases, metastatic ovarian cancer can also spread to distant organs, such as the lungs, liver, or brain.
Risk Factors
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not known, but various risk factors can increase a woman's risk of developing the disease, including: age, family history, genetics, obesity, use of estrogen-only hormone therapy, prior history of infertility, and having never been pregnant.
Signs and Symptoms
The most common symptoms of metastatic ovarian cancer are: abdominal pain or discomfort, increased abdominal size, loss of appetite, feeling full quickly after eating, and unexplained weight loss. If the cancer has spread to other parts of the body, symptoms will depend on the site of metastasis, and can include pain at the affected site, difficulty breathing, headaches, or seizures.
Diagnosis and Treatment
Metastatic ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed using blood tests, imaging scans, or laparoscopic surgery. Treatment typically involves chemotherapy or a combination of chemotherapy and targeted therapy. In some cases, surgical removal of the cancer may be an option. However, due to the aggressive nature of this type of cancer, the prognosis is usually poor.
Prevention
Although there is no sure way to prevent metastatic ovarian cancer, there are steps women can take to reduce their risk. These include regular gynecological exams, being aware of family history, eating a healthy diet, exercising regularly, and limiting alcohol consumption. Additionally, women should discuss any risk factors with their healthcare provider and be aware of changes in their body.
Ways to Help
If you know someone who has been diagnosed with metastatic ovarian cancer, there are many ways you can lend your support and show that you care. Here are a few ideas to get started:
- Offer to help with tasks like running errands, cooking meals, or cleaning.
- Listen as they talk about their experience and take the time to learn about the disease.
- Encourage them to stay connected with their medical team and stay informed about their treatment.
- Find organizations and fundraisers in your area to get involved and raise awareness for the cause.
- Remind them of the importance of self-care and provide them with emotional support.