As the name suggests it is a female specific cancer of the ovaries – there are two on either side of the uterus.

It is common amongst women and is quite difficult to suspect and diagnose because its symptoms are not very specific but rather vague like

• Bloating of abdomen
• Feeling full very early, while eating
• Noticeable weight loss
• Discomfort in the lower part of abdomen (pelvis area)
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation or loose stools
• Increased frequency of urination

At a late stage, ovarian cancer is very difficult to treat and is frequently fatal since it usually spreads to surrounding organs. Early-stage ovarian cancer where the disease is confined to the ovary, has a higher chance of being treated successfully.

Diagnosis is by ultrasonography and CT scan in suspect cases.

Treatment is by a permutation/ combination of surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy.

Commonest FAQs people ask:

1. Does Pap smear help diagnose Ovarian cancer?
   No. A Pap smear cannot detect ovarian cancer. A Pap smear can detect changes in the cervical cells that may increase a woman’s risk of cervical cancer in the future.
2. Does HPV vaccine prevents ovarian cancer?
   No. HPV vaccine prevents against cervical cancer caused by Human Papilloma virus.
3. My uterus is removed. Can I still get ovarian cancer?
   Yes. The risk depends on type of surgery. If ovaries are left behind the chances are as much as any other woman who uterus is intact. If ovaries are removed, chances are minimal but not nil.
4. My mother had ovarian cancer. Should I get CA 125 done every six months?
   CA 125 is a marker (blood test) to monitor ovarian cancer. Blood markers are blood tests that help monitor effect of treatment and/ or recurrence of the disease. Although women with ovarian cancer have raised levels of CA 125; a higher than normal reading does not always mean one has ovarian cancer. It is not a screening test and should not be resorted to just checking whether you have it or not?

Dr Chander Asrani, is a post-graduate in Family Medicine. He has over 37 years in family practice and has been offering wellness and disease management services to corporates. He is soon to launch virtual clinics.  He writes on various subjects of wellness; learning to live with chronic ailments and stress. Know more about him at about.me/drasrani.