Ovarian Cancer

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a disease that begins in the ovaries, the reproductive organs that produce eggs and hormones in people with female anatomy. Cancer cells grow abnormally and can spread to other parts of the body if not detected early. The ovaries sit on either side of the uterus and are about the size of an almond.

There are several types of ovarian cancer. The most common type starts in the cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary. Other types begin in the egg-producing cells or the hormone-producing cells. Ovarian cancer is often called a silent killer because symptoms may not appear until the disease has advanced.

Early detection is difficult but can save lives. Women over 50 and those with a family history face higher risk. The disease accounts for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. This makes regular monitoring and awareness of symptoms vital for those at risk.

CA-125 (Ovarian Cancer Test)

Detect ovarian cancer early for peace of mind
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Carbohydrate Antigen (CA) 19-9

Detect early signs of pancreatic issues
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Cancer Antigen (CA) 15-3

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Symptoms

Bloating or swelling in the abdomen that persists
Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Urgent or frequent need to urinate
Fatigue or low energy levels
Upset stomach or indigestion
Back pain that cannot be explained
Pain during sex
Constipation or changes in bowel habits
Menstrual changes or abnormal vaginal bleeding

Many women have no symptoms in the early stages of ovarian cancer. Symptoms often appear only after the cancer has grown or spread. These symptoms can also be caused by many other common conditions, which makes diagnosis challenging.

Causes and risk factors

The exact cause of ovarian cancer is not fully understood. Scientists believe it starts when cells in the ovaries develop changes in their DNA. These changes cause cells to grow and multiply rapidly, forming a tumor. Risk factors include age over 50, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, inherited gene mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2, never having been pregnant, endometriosis, and obesity.

Hormone replacement therapy after menopause may slightly increase risk. Women who have used birth control pills for several years have a lower risk. Having children and breastfeeding also appear to reduce risk. A personal history of breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer increases the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer.

How it's diagnosed

Ovarian cancer is diagnosed through a combination of physical exams, imaging tests, and blood tests. A pelvic exam can sometimes detect abnormal masses. Ultrasound imaging helps visualize the ovaries and identify suspicious growths. CT scans or MRI may be used to see if cancer has spread.

Blood tests measure cancer biomarkers like CA-125, which is often elevated in ovarian cancer. Rite Aid offers CA-125 testing as an add-on to help monitor your health. Other biomarkers like CA 19-9, CA 15-3, and CA 27.29 may also be measured in combination to provide additional information. The only way to confirm ovarian cancer is through a biopsy, where tissue is removed and examined under a microscope.

Treatment options

Surgery to remove one or both ovaries, the uterus, and surrounding tissue
Chemotherapy to kill cancer cells throughout the body
Targeted therapy drugs that attack specific cancer cell characteristics
Immunotherapy to help the immune system fight cancer
Radiation therapy in select cases
Clinical trials testing new treatment approaches
Nutrition support to maintain strength during treatment
Pain management and palliative care for quality of life
Regular follow-up testing to monitor for recurrence
Genetic counseling for family members if hereditary mutations are found

Frequently asked questions

Persistent bloating and abdominal swelling are among the most commonly reported early symptoms. However, many women have no noticeable symptoms in the early stages. Other early signs may include pelvic pain, feeling full quickly when eating, and urinary urgency. These symptoms are often mistaken for digestive or bladder issues.

Blood tests can measure biomarkers like CA-125 that are often elevated in ovarian cancer. However, a blood test alone cannot diagnose ovarian cancer because CA-125 can be elevated for other reasons. Blood tests are most useful for monitoring women at high risk or tracking treatment progress. Imaging tests and biopsies are needed to confirm a diagnosis.

Women over age 50 face the highest risk, with most cases diagnosed after menopause. Those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations have significantly increased risk. A family history of ovarian or breast cancer, never having been pregnant, and having endometriosis also raise risk. Women with a personal history of breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer should be especially vigilant.

CA-125 is a protein that can be elevated in the blood when ovarian cancer is present. The test measures the level of this biomarker. While not specific only to ovarian cancer, it is the most commonly used blood marker for monitoring the disease. Tracking CA-125 levels over time can help detect cancer recurrence or assess treatment effectiveness.

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, but certain factors may reduce risk. Taking birth control pills for several years lowers risk. Having children and breastfeeding also appear protective. Women with BRCA mutations may consider preventive surgery to remove the ovaries and fallopian tubes after childbearing is complete.

Survival rates depend heavily on the stage at diagnosis. When caught early and confined to the ovary, the 5-year survival rate is around 93%. Unfortunately, only about 20% of cases are found at this stage. When diagnosed at an advanced stage, the 5-year survival rate drops significantly. This is why early detection efforts and awareness of symptoms are so important.

Yes, there are several types based on where the cancer starts in the ovary. Epithelial ovarian cancer begins in the cells covering the ovary's surface and accounts for about 90% of cases. Germ cell tumors start in egg-producing cells and are more common in younger women. Stromal tumors begin in hormone-producing cells and are relatively rare.

Women with a strong family history should talk to their doctor about a personalized screening plan. This may include CA-125 blood tests and transvaginal ultrasounds every 6 to 12 months. Genetic testing for BRCA mutations is recommended for those with multiple affected family members. Regular monitoring does not prevent cancer but can help catch it earlier when treatment is more effective.

An elevated CA-125 does not automatically mean you have ovarian cancer. Many conditions can raise CA-125 levels, including endometriosis, fibroids, pregnancy, and menstruation. Your doctor will likely order imaging tests like an ultrasound or CT scan to look for abnormalities. Follow-up testing and monitoring over time help determine if further investigation is needed.

Maintaining a healthy weight may help reduce risk, as obesity is associated with higher rates of ovarian cancer. Eating a diet rich in vegetables and fruits supports overall health. Avoiding hormone replacement therapy or using it for the shortest time possible may lower risk. While lifestyle changes cannot eliminate risk entirely, they contribute to better overall health outcomes.