Ovarian Cancer: Know Your Risk
One of the challenges of ovarian cancer is that it is often not diagnosed in its early stages (I and II), when it is most curable. Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent" killer because often there are no symptoms until the disease has progressed to an advanced stage. According to the American Cancer Society, there will be 20,180 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed this year.
Early Detection
Because the ovaries are located deep within the abdominal cavity, it is difficult to detect changes. That is why it is important to know the symptoms, which include:
- Swelling of the stomach
- Unusual vaginal bleeding
- Pelvic pain or discomfort
- Problems such as gas, bloating, long-term stomach pain, constipation or indigestion
- Ongoing unusual fatigue
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits
In addition to being mindful of the symptoms of ovarian cancer, it is important for women to have regular health examinations that include rectal and pelvic examinations.
Risk Factors
There are factors that can increase your risk. It is important to recognize these factors along with possible symptoms. According to the American Cancer Society, the risk factors include:
- Age: Most ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed after menopause.
- Obesity
- Menstrual periods: Women who started their periods before age 12 or who went through menopause before age 50 have a small increased risk. Women who have never had children or had their first child after age 30 also have an increased risk.
- Family history
- Having breast cancer
University of Pennsylvania Cancer Risk Evaluation Program
Penn’s Cancer Risk Evaluation Program offers information, evaluation and follow-up for people who are at an increased risk of cancer due to personal or family history. When you visit Penn's Cancer Risk Evaluation Program, you will benefit from a team of genetic and cancer experts working together, including physicians who are nationally recognized experts in the diagnosis and treatment of breast, ovarian and gastrointestinal cancers.
Our genetic counselor also has extensive experience in family history assessment, education and counseling for people with a family history of these cancers.
Penn’s Cancer Risk Evaluation program includes:
- Helping you understand what is known about risk factors for cancer.
- Reviewing your family history, medical history and lifestyle risk factors.
- Outlining a plan for continued monitoring for early detection and personal risk reduction.
- Evaluating your eligibility to participate in research studies.
For more information about Penn’s Cancer Risk Evaluation Program, call 1-800-789-PENN (7366).
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