Early Detection and Treatment of Ovarian Cancer

Early detection of ovarian cancer can increase a patient's survival rate, and make treatment of the disease less difficult. Although ovarian cancer is tough to detect and treat, there are several ways that have proven to be successful.

Symptoms

• Many symptoms of ovarian cancer can be contributed to other causes; however, if you have any of the following symptoms for more than two weeks, you should see a doctor. Symptoms can include abdominal pain, swelling or bloating; unexplained weight gain or loss; frequent urination; fatigue; and feeling full quickly.

Detection methods

• A pelvic exam, transvaginal sonography and a CA125 test have all proven to be accurate in detecting ovarian cancer.

Surgery

• Treatment depends on how advanced the cancer is. In almost all cases, surgery is performed to remove the tumor, and often the ovaries, uterus, fallopian tubes and omentum if the cancer has spread.

Chemotherapy

• Chemotherapy is recommended in for more advanced stages of ovarian cancer, including stages 2, 3 and 4.

Survival rate

• According to the American Cancer Society, if the cancer is found early (before it has spread to other organs), patients have a 93 percent chance of surviving five years or more. In advanced stages, patients have about a 31 percent chance of surviving five years or more.