Ovarian cancer is a concerning health issue that often goes unnoticed until it has progressed to an advanced stage. For Indian women, understanding the warning signs and risk factors is crucial due to the subtlety of its symptoms and the general lack of awareness. In India, ovarian cancer ranks as the third most common gynaecological cancer, which makes it imperative to shed light on this silent disease.

Here are 7 signs to watch out for:

1. Persistent Bloating

Have you noticed an increase in bloating that doesn’t seem to go away with usual remedies? Persistent bloating, which occurs most days and lasts for three weeks or more, can be a significant warning sign of ovarian cancer. Unlike normal bloating that comes and goes, this symptom persists and often feels different. It is crucial to consult a healthcare provider if you experience such symptoms, as early detection can significantly improve treatment outcomes.

2. Pelvic or Abdominal Pain

Experiencing pain in the lower abdomen or pelvic area can be a sign of various conditions, but when it's persistent or severe, it warrants attention. This type of pain, particularly if it coincides with other symptoms like bloating, should not be ignored. Many women describe this pain as sharp and persistent, different from menstrual cramps or pain associated with other benign gynaecological conditions.

3. Difficulty Eating or Feeling Full Quickly

If you suddenly find yourself feeling full unusually quickly or experience a decreased appetite over a prolonged period, it could signal ovarian cancer. This symptom, known as early satiety, might cause you to eat less than usual, leading to unintended weight loss. The pressure from an enlarged ovary or fluid around it might be responsible for these sensations.

4. Changes in Bowel Habits

Are you experiencing changes in your bowel habits, such as constipation or frequent diarrhoea? Although these symptoms can be linked to less severe health issues, when they occur alongside other ovarian cancer signs, they should be taken seriously. An increase in the size or number of ovarian tumours can press on the intestines, affecting bowel function.

5. Urinary Symptoms

An increased urgency to urinate or an increase in the frequency of urination can also be indicative of ovarian cancer. These symptoms arise when a tumour puts pressure on the bladder, making it feel fuller than it actually is. It's crucial not to dismiss these symptoms as merely a bladder problem without getting evaluated for potential ovarian issues.

6. Fatigue

Feeling unusually tired or experiencing fatigue that doesn’t improve with rest can be another subtle sign of ovarian cancer. While fatigue is common to many conditions, when combined with other symptoms listed here, it should prompt further investigation. Fatigue in cancer patients is often due to the body's increased energy use to fight the illness or due to the cancer itself affecting the body's normal functions.

7. Unexplained Weight Loss

Have you lost a significant amount of weight without trying? Unexplained weight loss of about 10% or more of your body weight, without changes in diet or exercise, can be a concern and is often associated with several cancers, including ovarian cancer. This symptom is particularly noteworthy when accompanied by other signs of potential ovarian issues.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

Understanding the risk factors associated with ovarian cancer can help in early detection and possibly even prevention. Here are some of the primary risk factors:

1. Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after menopause. Most cases are diagnosed in women aged 50 to 60.
2. Family History: A history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer in close relatives can increase your risk due to inherited mutations in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
3. Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or had their first child after 30 may have a higher risk.
4. Endometriosis: This condition, where tissue similar to the lining inside the uterus grows outside of it, also elevates the risk.
5. Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of HRT has been linked with an increased risk, although this is dependent on the type and duration of therapy.
6. Obesity: A higher body mass index (BMI) has been associated with an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Preventive Measures and Early Detection

Preventive measures include regular gynaecological check-ups, which allow for early detection of unusual changes in the ovaries. For those with a high genetic risk, options such as genetic testing and counselling are available. Lifestyle changes, such as maintaining a healthy weight, managing diet, and possibly reducing the duration of hormone replacement therapy, can also be beneficial.

Seek A Holistic Approach to Treatment and Support

Ovarian cancer may not be as frequently discussed as breast or cervical cancer, but its impact is profound. Awareness of the signs and risk factors can lead to early detection, which significantly improves survival rates. If you recognize any of the symptoms or identify with the risk factors mentioned, consult a healthcare provider. Remember, asking questions and seeking help early could save your life.

At KKR Hospital, ovarian cancer patients can receive comprehensive care tailored to their specific needs. The hospital employs a multidisciplinary approach, combining surgery, chemotherapy, and personalized therapies to effectively combat ovarian cancer. Patients benefit from KKR's state-of-the-art facilities and a team of dedicated medical professionals committed to providing the best possible outcomes and support throughout the treatment process. This holistic approach ensures that every aspect of the patient’s health and recovery is addressed.

Stay informed, stay healthy, and support ovarian cancer awareness.