Understanding Ovarian Cancer: An Overview
Ovarian cancer is a serious and often deadly disease characterized by the growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries. These cells can multiply rapidly, invading and destroying healthy tissues. Unlike other cancers, ovarian cancer encompasses various types that affect the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the primary peritoneal cavity. It remains the most lethal of female cancers due to the lack of a reliable screening test, resulting in many cases being diagnosed at later stages when symptoms become more noticeable .
How Ovarian Cancer Develops
Ovarian cancer begins when cells in or near the ovaries undergo mutations in their DNA. DNA contains the genetic instructions that direct cell behavior. When these instructions are altered, the cells can become cancerous, continuing to live and proliferate when healthy cells would die. This uncontrolled growth allows cancer cells to invade nearby tissues and spread (metastasize) to other parts of the body .
Key Statistics on Ovarian Cancer
According to the American Cancer Society, the estimates for ovarian cancer in the United States for 2024 are alarming:
- Approximately 19,680 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer.
- About 12,740 women will die from ovarian cancer .
Ovarian cancer ranks among the leading causes of cancer deaths in women. The lifetime risk for a woman to develop ovarian cancer is approximately 1 in 87, with a 1 in 130 chance of dying from the disease. Notably, more than 50% of ovarian cancer cases occur in women over the age of 63 .
Types of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer manifests in several forms, including:
- Epithelial ovarian cancer: The most common type, with subtypes like serous carcinoma and mucinous carcinoma.
- Stromal tumors: Rare and typically diagnosed at an earlier stage.
- Germ cell tumors: Also rare, these usually affect younger women .
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and are often mistaken for other common conditions. They include:
- Persistent abdominal pain
- Bloated abdomen
- Loss of appetite
- Increased urination
- Overall fatigue
- Lower back pain
Due to the lack of effective screening tests, these symptoms often go unnoticed until the cancer has advanced and spread to other areas of the body. If you experience any of these symptoms, it is crucial to contact your healthcare provider immediately .
Join the Fight Against Ovarian Cancer
On Saturday, June 29th, a special event will be held at Lucky Luke’s Brewery in Santa Clarita, CA, to support ovarian cancer treatment and research. The event runs from 11:00 AM to 3:00 PM. Participants can pre-register online for an entry fee of $40.00 per team or register on the day of the event for $50.00 per team. Join us to support this vital cause and help make a difference in the fight against ovarian cancer.
Sources
- American Cancer Society
- Clearity Foundation
- Mayo Clinic