Ovarian cancer is a disease all women fear. It is the deadliest cancer of all the gynecological cancers, with an estimated lifetime risk of 1 in 78 women. The American Cancer Society estimates that in 2021, there will be about 21,400 new cases of ovarian cancer (1.2% of all new cancers), and 13,700 women will ultimately die (2.3% of all cancer deaths) of ovarian cancer in the United States.
The biggest risk factor for ovarian cancer is being born with female anatomy, so let’s explore more about ovarian cancer what we can do to lower our risk and recognize the warning signs.
Ovarian Cancer Facts
- 90% of women who get ovarian cancer are over 40
- Ovarian cancer is extremely rare in women younger than 35.
- The median age for ovarian cancer diagnosis is 63.
- Ovarian cancer ranks 5th in cancer deaths among women.
What are the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer?
- Pelvic pain or pressure
- Back Pain
- Bloating
- Feeling full too quickly or having difficulty eating
- Change in your bathroom habits to include urination and bowel movements
Now that we have familiarized ourselves with some ovarian cancer facts and how to recognize the signs and symptoms, let us turn our attention to lowering our risk, who is at greatest risk, and how to get tested.
Dr. Angela Ziebarth is a local gynecologist oncologist, a surgeon specializing in treating women’s gynecologic cancers, and a Pensacola mom. She was kind enough to allow me to interview her so we could get the best information to spread to our Pensacola community.
What do you feel are the top risk factors for ovarian cancer?
The top risk factors are postmenopausal status, obesity, having children later (or no children), and hormone replacement after menopause. Also, patients with a strong family history are at increased risk of ovarian cancer, although only about 25% of ovarian cancers are related to genetic factors.
Are there any preventative measures that can lower your risk of ovarian cancer?
There is no way to prevent ovarian cancer, but there are some protective factors: Women who have had term pregnancies, have used oral contraceptives for greater than five years, or have breastfed their infants all have a lower risk. Likewise, patients who have undergone tubal ligation or have had their ovaries or fallopian tubes removed have substantial protection.
Who should be screened for ovarian cancer?
Women should have an Annual Well-Woman/Physical with their provider. At this visit, it should be discussed whether a pelvic examination or pap smear is appropriate. Another important component of this visit is discussing any symptoms that may seem out of the ordinary and reviewing your family’s cancer history. Patients who have a family history of breast, ovarian, colon, prostate, and pancreatic cancers may be more likely to develop ovarian cancer. If you have any family members with a known genetic syndrome, this is important to discuss as well. During this conversation, your provider may recommend further genetic counseling.
What other advice would you offer to our Pensacola Moms?
Advocate for yourself. You know your body best. If you are having abnormal symptoms that are persistent for more than two weeks, make an appointment with your provider to discuss further.
Advocate for yourself.
You know your body best.
Dr. Ziebarth left all of us with some great advice…
When it comes to your body, you need to advocate for yourself. Ovarian cancer is only found in the early stage 20% of the time. Early detection of ovarian cancer is critical and results in 94% of patients living longer than five years after diagnosis.
I hope reading this article inspires you to take good care of yourself and encourage Pensacola moms to keep up with their annual wellness visits.
Remember to wear a teal ribbon in September to help increase ovarian cancer awareness.
