Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women and the leading cause of gynecologic cancer deaths. Approximately one in 70 women will develop it in their lifetime.
Because symptoms are often nonspecific and there are no standardized screening tests, ovarian cancer is difficult to catch before it spreads. Here are eight key questions to ask your doctor to stay informed and proactive.
1. What’s My Risk for Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer can be hereditary. About 10% of cases stem from inherited BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Women with a BRCA1 mutation have a 35–70% lifetime risk, while those with BRCA2 have a 10–30% risk by age 70.
2. Is There Anything I Can Do About It?
Yes. Understanding your BRCA mutation status through genetic testing (blood or saliva) can help assess your risk. For those already diagnosed, tumor testing can guide treatment decisions.
3. How Influential Is Family History?
Family history is a major factor. Inform your doctor about any first- or second-degree relatives (on both sides) with ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer, including their age at diagnosis and genetic test results.
Other risk factors include:
- Age (50% higher risk for women 63+)
- Obesity (BMI ≥ 30)
- Never having a full-term pregnancy or having children after 35
- Estrogen-only hormone therapy after menopause (5–10 years)
- Personal history of breast cancer
4. What Are the Symptoms That Commonly Show?
The most common symptoms are:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Indigestion or difficulty eating
- Loss of appetite
Persistent symptoms should be discussed with a healthcare provider, who may recommend a pelvic ultrasound.
5. Is Genetic Testing Important for Me?
Yes. Genetic testing can determine if you have a BRCA mutation, helping to guide risk-reduction strategies or treatment options. If you have a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, consider BRCA testing.
6. How Do I Build a Healthy Routine?
An unhealthy lifestyle increases cancer risk. Maintaining a healthy weight, eating well, and exercising regularly can lower your risk. Studies show active women have a reduced risk of ovarian cancer.
7. What Are My Screening Options?
There are no standard screening guidelines for average-risk women. Screening is recommended for those with a family history or BRCA mutation. Options include:
- Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVS): Uses sound waves to examine the ovaries and uterus. Can detect a mass but cannot determine if it’s cancerous.
- CA-125 Blood Test: Measures levels of the CA-125 protein. Elevated in 50% of early and 80% of advanced ovarian cancers.
- ROCA (Risk of Ovarian Cancer Algorithm): A statistical tool that tracks CA-125 levels over time to assess risk. Sensitive for early stages (I and II).
- Blood Tests for Germ/Stromal Tumors: Detect protein markers for specific tumor types and monitor treatment or recurrence.
8. What Are My Treatment Options?
Treatment depends on the cancer stage. Even in later stages, treatment can prevent metastasis.
- Local Treatment: Surgery to remove the tumor.
- Systemic Treatments: Chemotherapy and targeted therapy to reach cancer cells throughout the body.
- Palliative Care: Helps relieve symptoms and improve quality of life during treatment.