Ovarian cancer is one of the types of cancer found in the reproductive organs of women and is considered one of the most challenging to treat. It often develops from the surface layer of the ovaries and is also known as the "silent killer" because it typically shows no symptoms in the early stages, leading to late diagnosis and complicated treatment.
In Turkey, approximately 4,000 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year. This translates to 12.5 cases per 100,000 women. Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer type in women in Turkey, and mortality rates from ovarian cancer are quite high. About 2,000 women lose their lives to this disease annually. Ovarian cancer is most commonly observed in women aged 50-60.
Death rates from ovarian cancer are also high worldwide, with approximately 150,000 women losing their lives to this disease every year. Developed countries tend to have higher survival rates from ovarian cancer due to better opportunities for early diagnosis and treatment.
Symptoms of ovarian cancer may not be prominent in the early stages and can often be confused with other health issues. However, as ovarian cancer advances, symptoms may become more noticeable. The symptoms of ovarian cancer include:
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague in the early stages, so individuals experiencing any suspicious symptoms should consult a healthcare professional. Early diagnosis can increase the chances of successful treatment and help control the disease.
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, and this insidious disease can occur in women without all risk factors. However, certain factors are known to increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer. The most common ones include:
The diagnosis of ovarian cancer typically involves a comprehensive process, including a physical examination by a doctor, blood tests, imaging methods, biopsy, and, if necessary, laparoscopy. During the physical examination, the doctor evaluates the pelvic region, examining for the size of ovaries and investigating for masses or abnormalities.
Blood tests, especially measuring specific protein levels like CA-125, can help assess whether there are indications of ovarian cancer. However, this test is not specific, and other conditions can also cause elevated CA-125 levels. Imaging methods such as ultrasound, computed tomography (CT), or magnetic resonance imaging (MRI) can help detect masses or abnormalities in the ovaries and play a crucial role in determining the spread and stage of cancer.
Biopsy involves taking a sample from the ovary, which is then examined under a microscope. This procedure helps determine the type and stage of cancer. Laparoscopy is a surgical method used in some cases. By inserting a thin camera and instruments into the abdominal region, abnormalities in the ovaries can be examined closely, and samples can be taken if necessary. Each patient is unique, and the doctor determines the diagnostic methods based on the specific situation of the patient. Early diagnosis can increase the chances of successful treatment and help control the disease.
The treatment of ovarian cancer is typically determined based on the stage of cancer, the type of tumor, and the overall health of the patient. Primary treatment options include surgical intervention, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, and targeted therapies. Surgical intervention usually involves the removal of cancerous tissue, and the removal of ovaries, uterus, and other relevant tissues may be included in the plan.
Chemotherapy, a drug treatment aiming to kill cancer cells or control their growth, is utilized. Radiation therapy involves using high-energy rays to eliminate or control the growth of cancer cells. These treatment methods can be applied alone or in combination, depending on the stage of cancer and the patient's overall health.
Targeted therapies aim to target specific characteristics of cancer cells and are often used in conjunction with other treatments, offering a personalized treatment approach. The treatment plan is typically determined with the involvement of a multidisciplinary team, including surgeons, oncologists, radiation specialists, and other experts. Throughout the treatment process, the patient's side effects and quality of life are considered.
The treatment of ovarian cancer can increase the chances of success with early diagnosis and appropriate treatment. Patients should maintain open communication with their doctors about treatment plans and options, collaborating to determine the most effective treatment for their specific situation. For more detailed information on the treatment of ovarian cancer and ovarian cancer prices in Turkey, you can contact Medwide.
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Yes, symptoms of ovarian cancer can often be mistaken for other health issues. Ovarian cancer typically does not show symptoms in the early stages or may have symptoms that resemble other disorders. Therefore, individuals with symptoms such as pelvic pain, abdominal bloating, changes in urination, or digestive problems should consult a healthcare professional, considering these symptoms.
Ovarian cancer generally remains confined to surrounding tissues and pelvic organs initially. However, in advanced stages, cancer cells can spread to other organs within the abdomen, lymph nodes, or the liver. In such cases, metastasis, the spreading of cancer, can occur.
CA-125 is one of the markers for ovarian cancer, but it is not specific, and elevated CA-125 levels can result from other conditions. Normally, CA-125 levels should be below 35 U/ml. However, a result above this value may raise suspicion of ovarian cancer, requiring further tests and evaluations with additional imaging methods. CA-125 levels are not used alone to diagnose ovarian cancer; they are assessed in conjunction with other clinical findings and test results.
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