Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

The Fiercest Battles Are Fought In Silence

Ovarian cancer awareness month takes place every year in September, providing an important opportunity to raise awareness about this deadly disease. Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because its vague symptoms can easily be mistaken for other less serious conditions. However, the survival rate is significantly higher when diagnosed at an early stage. In this blog post, we will explore the importance of ovarian cancer awareness month 2023, delve into the types, stages, prevention, and some frequently asked questions about ovarian cancer, and provide information on supporting those affected by this disease. 

Importance Of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

• Ovarian cancer is one of the third most common gynecologic cancers in India. It ranks among the top ten cancers affecting Indian women. The incidence of ovarian cancer has been gradually increasing over the years.
• The awareness month creates a sense of community for individuals and families affected by ovarian cancer. Support groups, events, and awareness campaigns offer emotional support and a platform for sharing experiences, helping patients and caregivers cope with the challenges of the disease.
• For those affected by ovarian cancer, this month emphasizes risk reduction and prevention strategies. Women are encouraged to understand their family history, genetic risk factors, and lifestyle choices that can impact their risk of ovarian cancer. By empowering women with knowledge, they can take proactive steps to protect their health.
   

Outline of Ovarian Cancer
 

Ovarian cancer is a complex and often misunderstood disease that primarily affects women. The ovaries are a pair of small, almond-shaped organs located on either side of the uterus in the female reproductive system. This cancer can manifest in different subtypes, making it challenging to detect and treat.
 

Types Of Ovarian Cancer

Epithelial ovarian cancer: This type of ovarian cancer occurs on the surface of the ovary. It is otherwise also known as epithelial ovarian carcinoma. It is further divided into the following four types.

1. Serous Carcinomas
2. Endometrioid Carcinomas
3. Clear cell carcinomas
4. Mucinous carcinomas
    

Germ cell ovarian tumors: This cancer begins in the cells of the ovaries that form the eggs (germ cells). It is further divided into the following types,

1. Dysgerminoma
2. Immature Teratomas
3. Mature teratomas
4. Endodermal sinus tumors or yolk sac tumors
    

Sex Cord-Stromal Tumors: Tumors that begin in the sex cords or the stroma is called sex cord-stromal tumors. There are various types of sex cord-stromal tumors. These tumors can be benign (noncancerous) or malignant (cancerous). Sex cord-stromal tumors are further divided into the following types,

1. Sertoli-leydig cell tumor
2. Adult granulosa cell tumor
3. Juvenile granulosa cell tumor
4. Gynandroblastoma
5. Dertoli cell tumor
6. Malignant mixed mullerian tumor
    

Borderline Epithelial Tumors: In this type, abnormal cells form around the ovary tissue. They are not cancerous and can usually be cured using surgery.
 

Stages Of Ovarian Cancer

The various stages based on which the doctor determines the progress, prognosis, and treatment of ovarian cancer are:

Stage I

1. Stage IA: In this stage, the cancer is limited to one ovary.
2. Stage IB: In this stage, the cancer is present in both ovaries.
3. Stage IC: In this stage, the cancer cells are present outside the ovaries.

• Stage IC 1: This stage indicates the presence of cancer in one or both ovaries, and the cancer cells have leaked into the belly or pelvic region during the tumor removal surgery.
• Stage IC 2: This stage indicates the presence of cancer in one or both ovaries or the tumor has ruptured, causing the cancer cells to leak before surgery.

Stage II

1. Stage IIA: In this substage, cancer has grown into the fallopian tubes, uterus, or both.
2. Stage IIB: In this stage, cancer has grown and spread into the surrounding organs in the pelvis, like the colon, bladder, or rectum.

Stage III

1. Stage III A: In this stage, cancer has spread into the surrounding lymph nodes and might grow in the surrounding organs. This stage is further divided into the following,

• Stage III A1: This stage indicates the spread of cancer into the nearby lymph nodes behind the abdomen.
• Stage III A2: This stage indicates that your doctor saw your cancer in the belly (abdomen) while performing surgery. Cancer might have also spread in the lymph nodes.

2. Stage III B: This stage means that the cancer size is less than or up to 2 cm and is lining the peritoneum (abdomen). Cancer might have also spread in the lymph nodes.

Stage IV

• Stage IV A: In this substage, the cancer cells have spread into the fluid surrounding the lungs, but it has not spread into any other areas beyond the abdomen or pelvis.
• Stage IV B: Cancer in this stage has spread in the lymph nodes, tissues, and organs. These organs may include the brain, skin, and lungs. 
   

Prevention Of Ovarian Cancer

Several strategies and lifestyle choices may help reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

• Consider genetic counseling and testing if you have a family history of ovarian cancer or a known genetic mutation (such as BRCA1 or BRCA2). Identifying a genetic predisposition can help you make informed decisions about risk-reducing strategies.
• A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may be protective. Some studies suggest that foods containing antioxidants, like fruits and vegetables, may help reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
• Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise is advisable.
• While there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, For ovarian and gynecological cancer regular gynecological check-ups can help monitor your reproductive health and detect potential issues early. Discuss your family history and risk factors with your physician.
   

On A Final Note
 

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2023 reminds us that this month is not just about recognizing the challenges posed by ovarian cancer but also about the collective effort to make a positive impact. By emphasizing early detection, offering support to those in need, and publicly supporting increased research and resources, we can continue the fight against ovarian cancer to find a cure and improve the lives of those affected by this disease. Together, we can make a difference in the battle against ovarian cancer. 

Let's Make Some Noise For A Cure