Ovarian cancer is the third most common gynaecological cancer among Indian women, following breast and cervical cancer.
China, India and the US had the highest number of ovarian cancer cases in 2022.There were 324,603 new cases of ovarian cancer in 2022.
It has the highest fatality rate among female cancers with less than 50 % 5 year survival rates due to:
Its vague and insidious symptoms, which lead to delayed diagnosis
The lack of effective screening methods
The fact that two-thirds of cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage
So more than 2/3 of ovarian cancers are diagnosed in advance stage 3 and 4.
Does Ovarian Cancer Occur at a Young Age?
Although ovarian cancer is most commonly seen in women over 60, approximately 20% of cases occur in women under 40.
What Are the Common Causes of Ovarian Cancer in Young Women?
The primary risk factors for ovarian cancer which is rising in young women include:
A strong family history or genetic predisposition
Rising infertility rates
Choosing not to have children or having the first child at a later age
Smoking and an unhealthy lifestyle
High levels of mental stress
Genetic mutations like BRCA, which are commonly linked to ovarian and breast cancer
Can Ovarian Cancer Be Cured?
If diagnosed early, ovarian cancer can be completely cured with surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy.
Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?
While ovarian cancer cannot always be prevented in those with genetic predisposition, women with a strong family history should:
Get screened for genetic mutations like BRCA
If BRCA-positive, consider prophylactic risk-reducing surgeries like oophorectomy by age 38-40.
Begin regular screening for ovarian and breast cancer from the age of 30–35
Early detection is possible by getting an annual health check up which includes sonography of the abdomen and pelvis and blood test ca 125 which is tumor marker for ovary cancer.
Also those ladies who have symptoms like disturbed menstrual cycle, post menopausal bleeding, lower abdomen pain, abdomen distension, should consult a doctor immediately and get themselves screened for gynaecological cancers like ovarian cancer.
Nulliparity and Having first child after the age of 35 are risk factors for ovary cancer which should be avoided
Additionally, leading a healthy lifestyle can help lower the risk. This includes:
- Maintaining a healthy body weight ,Avoiding smoking and excessive alcohol consumption
- Eating a balanced diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains
- Engaging in regular exercise
- Early detection saves lives. Awareness, timely screening, and a healthy lifestyle can significantly reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
Shared by: Dr Reshma Puranik,
Consultant medical oncologist and hemato oncologist at DPU Super Specialty Hospital,
Pimpri, Pune
