Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer among American women. Almost two-thirds of those diagnosed are over the age of 55, but ovarian cancer affects women of all ages.
As Georgia's leader in diagnosing and treating GYN cancers, Northside Hospital provides the staff with expertise to care for a woman with ovarian cancer.
There are a variety of risk factors for ovarian cancer. Women have a lower risk if they have more children and have given birth at an early age. Women with a personal history of breast cancer, or a family history of breast or ovarian cancer have an increased risk. Older women are at highest risk and about two-thirds of the deaths from ovarian cancer occur in women age 55 and older.
Contrary to what some women believe, a Pap test does not detect ovarian cancer.
Primary Ovarian Cancer Symptoms:Often described as a “silent” cancer because its symptoms can be very subtle.
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
- Urinary symptoms (urgency or frequency)
Women with ovarian cancer report that symptoms are persistent. The frequency and/or number of such symptoms are key factors in diagnosing the disease. Women who have the symptoms almost daily for more than a few weeks should see their doctor, preferably a gynecologist. Prompt medical evaluation may lead to detection at the earliest possible stage and is early associated with an improved prognosis.
Secondary Symptoms:
- Unexplained changes in bowel habits
- Unexplained weight gain or loss
- Fatigue
- Pain during intercourse
- Abnormal menstrual cycles
- Vaginal bleeding
- Unexplained back pain that worsens over time
Exams and Tests:
A physical examination may reveal increased abdominal girth and fluid within the abdominal cavity. Pelvic examination may reveal an ovarian or abdominal mass. Tests may include:
- CA125
- General blood test
- Urinalysis
- Colposcopy
- Exploratory laparotomy
- Ultrasound
- Abdominal CT scan or MRI of abdomen
Ovarian Cancer Treatment:
- Surgery - Laparoscopic and daVinci robotic surgery is available
- Chemotherapy
- Radiation - if needed
Press Release:
Northside Offering New Hope for Patients with Advanced-Stage Ovarian Cancer
To find a physician on staff at Northside Hospital, click on Find a Doctor or call our free physician referral services at (404) 851-8817.
