|
OVARIAN CANCER
 |
Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer related death
in women ages 35-74. An estimated one woman in 55 will develop ovarian
cancer during her lifetime. Due to ovarian cancer's "quiet" symptoms,
only 24 percent of all cases are found at an early stage when the
cancer is still confined to the ovary. Because of this, the overall
five-year survival rate for women with ovarian cancer is only between
35 and 47 percent. Symptoms or warning signs include pelvic or abdominal
pain, vague but persistent gastrointestinal upsets such as gas,
nausea and indigestion, unexplained changes in bowel habits, pain
during intercourse, pelvic and/or abdominal swelling, bloating and/or
feeling of fullness and ongoing fatigue. Increased risk factors
include personal history of breast, colon or endometrial cancer,
family history of ovarian cancer (especially "first degree" relatives
including mother, sisters or daughters), and advancing age. Techniques
currently available for early diagnosis include yearly vaginal exams
for women age 18 and older, vaginal ultrasound for women at high
risk and a CA-125 blood test.
If you or a loved one are suffering with ovarian cancer and
suspect that there was a delay in diagnosis or proper treatment,
call us.
|
|