Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is a malignancy affecting the ovaries, presenting symptoms such as bloating, eating difficulties, pelvic heaviness, and increased urinary frequency. Treatment primarily involves surgical removal of the ovaries, supplemented by chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Various drug classes used in treatment include alkylating agents, antimetabolites, microtubule inhibitors, nucleoside metabolic inhibitors, platinum-based drugs, and topoisomerase inhibitors.

Causes

Ovarian cancer originates from mutations in ovarian cells, leading to uncontrolled growth and tumor formation. Although its exact cause remains unidentified, numerous factors can heighten the risk:

• Genetic mutations, notably in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, significantly increase the risk.

• A family history of ovarian cancer can elevate an individual's risk.

• Advancing age, particularly post-menopause, and obesity are notable risk factors.

• Hormonal influences, such as having no children, early menstruation, late menopause, or hormone replacement therapy usage, can contribute to risk.

• Medical conditions like endometriosis and diabetes are linked to higher risk.

Awareness of these factors is crucial for informed health decisions.

Symptoms

Ovarian cancer symptoms, though similar to other common health issues, can aid early detection:

• Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling

• Feeling full quickly

• Unexplained weight loss

• Pelvic discomfort or pain

• Fatigue and tiredness

• Back pain

• Changes in bowel habits, like constipation

• Frequent urination

Monitoring these symptoms' frequency and intensity is vital. Persistent symptoms warrant consultation with a healthcare provider for further assessment.

Diagnosis

Early-stage ovarian cancer often lacks symptoms, complicating diagnosis. Regular pelvic exams help detect unusual ovarian growths, though smaller tumors might go unnoticed. Imaging tests like ultrasounds and CT scans are typically used to investigate abnormalities, but they cannot confirm cancer on their own. Blood tests measuring CA-125 levels can indicate ovarian cancer presence, though they are not definitive. A confirmed diagnosis usually requires surgical tissue removal for cancer analysis. Genetic testing may be performed for suspected hereditary risk, aiding in personalized treatment strategy development. Once diagnosed, staging determines cancer spread, guiding treatment planning.

Treatments

Treating ovarian cancer generally involves surgery and chemotherapy. Surgical procedures aim to remove as much cancerous tissue as possible, potentially including one or both ovaries, the uterus, and adjacent tissues. Post-surgery, chemotherapy targets any remaining cancer cells, administered intravenously, orally, or directly into the abdomen. Targeted therapies and hormone therapies may also be utilized to attack specific cancer cells or block hormones promoting cancer growth. Although less common, radiation therapy may be considered in specific cases. Regular follow-ups after treatment are essential for detecting recurrence.

Medications

Various medications are employed to manage ovarian cancer by targeting specific cancer cell characteristics:

• Targeted Therapies: Focused on attacking cancer cells' particular features:

• Angiogenesis Inhibitors: Drugs like Bevacizumab inhibit new blood vessel development, starving tumors.

• PARP Inhibitors: Includes olaparib, rucaparib, and niraparib, these impair cancer cells' DNA repair ability, leading to cell death.

These medications may be combined with standard chemotherapy or used as maintenance treatments, prolonging initial therapy effectiveness and managing disease progression.

Prevention

Though ovarian cancer can't be entirely prevented, certain strategies may reduce risk:

• Birth Control Pills: Use of estrogen-progesterone pills for at least five years is linked to decreased risk.

• Surgical Procedures: Tubal ligation, ovary and fallopian tube removal, or hysterectomy might offer protection.

• Childbearing and Breastfeeding: Having children and breastfeeding beyond a year may modestly lower risk.

Women should discuss preventive strategies with healthcare providers, considering individual risks and potential benefits.