Overview

Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that grows in the ovaries, which are the parts of the female reproductive system that make eggs and hormones. It is often called a "silent disease" because the first signs are hard to notice and may go unnoticed. Older women, especially those who have gone through menopause, are more likely to get ovarian cancer. However, it can happen at any age. There are different kinds, but epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common. Early detection is difficult, but prompt evaluation of symptoms that don't resolve can lead to better treatment outcomes and higher survival rates.

Symptoms
Symptoms are often not very clear and can include persistent bloating, swelling of the abdomen, pelvic pain, trouble eating, and feeling full quickly. You may have to go to the bathroom more often, lose weight for no reason, feel tired, and have changes in your bowel habits. Diagnosis is often delayed until the disease progresses because these symptoms are similar to common digestive problems.

Causes
The precise aetiology remains unclear. The risk goes up with age, a family history of breast or ovarian cancer, and inherited gene mutations. Having your period early, going through menopause late, or never being pregnant may raise your risk. Some people may also be affected by obesity and hormone replacement therapy.

Diagnosis
Diagnosis includes a pelvic exam, an ultrasound, and blood tests that look for tumor markers. CT or MRI scans can help figure out how far the disease has spread. A definitive diagnosis is typically established during surgery through tissue biopsy to ascertain the cancer type and stage.

Treatment
Surgery to remove the ovaries and nearby tissues is usually the first step in treatment, followed by chemotherapy. In some cases, hormone therapy or targeted therapy may be used. The stage of the disease and the person's overall health will affect the treatment choices. Early-stage cancers have better outcomes than cancers that have spread.

The outlook depends on when the diagnosis is made. Finding the disease early greatly increases the chances of survival, but many cases are found too late. Regular gynaecological checkups and being aware of symptoms that don't go away are important for getting help quickly.