Presently there is no early detection test for ovarian cancer. When ovarian cancer is detected early, there is up to a 90% survival rate. Unfortunately, most times it is diagnosed in stage III or IV, which diminishes the survival rates. Although it is often called the "silent killer," there ARE warning signs or symptoms for ovarian cancer. We believe it is misdiagnosed rather than silent. Until there is a screening test for ovarian cancer, here are the symptoms to watch for:

Bloating
Pelvic or abdominal pain
Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)

Women who have these symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks should see their doctor, preferably a gynecologist.

TAKE ACTION

Consult a healthcare profession if any symptoms persist and are unusual for you. If you have abdominal symptoms and your physician feels that any kind of diagnostic intervention is necessary, make sure you have a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA 125 blood test. Furthermore, if shortness of breath is a symptom, a chest x-ray should be given. If ovarian cancer is suspected, consult a gynecologic oncologist. To find one in your area, call the Gynecologic Cancer Foundation at 1-800-444-4441.

DID YOU KNOW?

Ovarian cancer is the deadliest of the gynecologic cancers.
A Pap smear is NOT a test for ovarian cancer. It detects cervical cancer.
Risk for ovarian cancer increases with age, not bearing a child, and personal or family history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer.

WHAT CAN YOU DO TO DETECT OVARIAN CANCER UNTIL A SCREENING TEST IS FOUND?

Have an annual vaginal/rectal pelvic exam. Discuss regular monitoring with your doctor.
If you have a family history, genetic testing may determine if you carry a BRCA1 or 2 mutation.
BRCA1 or 2 mutations increase risk. Genetic counseling should always accompany testing.

Here is some advice from The Lynne Cohen Foundation's Medical Advisory Board regarding diagnosis, surgery and treatment:

DIAGNOSIS
If a woman sees her doctor due to abdominal symptoms, and the physician feels that any kind of diagnostic intervention is necessary, a pelvic ultrasound should be amongst the tests.

SURGERY
Studies have proven that women who undergo debulking surgery for ovarian cancer have better results when the surgery is done by a Gynecologic Oncologist.

TREATMENT
If the CA 125 shows that your numbers are going in the wrong direction, you need more reassessments by other means. Ask lots of questions. Do not be afraid to get a second opinion.

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