Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries, which are responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It often goes undetected in the early stages due to vague symptoms. Common symptoms include abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, frequent urination, and changes in bowel habits. These symptoms may be mistaken for other conditions, leading to delayed diagnosis.

Risk factors include age (most common in women over 50), family history of ovarian or breast cancer, genetic mutations (like BRCA1 and BRCA2), hormone replacement therapy, and having no children or a history of infertility.

Treatment options depend on the stage of the cancer. Surgery is often the first line of treatment, involving the removal of one or both ovaries and the uterus. Chemotherapy is commonly used post-surgery to eliminate remaining cancer cells. Targeted therapy and immunotherapy may also be options for advanced cases. Early detection and intervention significantly improve survival rates.

Some treatment options for Ovarian cancers are:

• Surgery:
  • Oophorectomy: Removal of one or both ovaries.
  • Hysterectomy: Removal of the uterus along with the ovaries and fallopian tubes (total abdominal hysterectomy with bilateral salpingo-oophorectomy).
  • Debulking Surgery: Removal of as much tumour mass as possible, particularly for advanced stages.
• Chemotherapy: Uses drugs to kill or inhibit the growth of cancer cells, commonly administered after surgery to eliminate any remaining cells. It may also be given before surgery (neoadjuvant chemotherapy) in certain cases.
• Targeted Therapy: Focuses on specific molecular targets associated with cancer, such as PARP inhibitors (e.g., olaparib), effective in cases with specific genetic mutations.
• Immunotherapy: Enhances the immune system’s ability to recognize and attack cancer cells, used in certain advanced cases with specific biomarkers.
• Radiation Therapy: Not commonly used as a primary treatment but may be utilized for palliative care or in specific situations to target localized tumors.
• Palliative Care: Aims to relieve symptoms and improve the quality of life for patients with advanced ovarian cancer, addressing pain and other discomforts.