Affinity Health, a leading provider of high-quality health cover, explores the facts about ovarian cancer, highlighting essential information and symptoms to watch for, and separating myths from the truth.
Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal cancers affecting women, mainly because it is often diagnosed at an advanced stage when treatment options are limited. Raising awareness, improving education, and encouraging early detection are crucial steps in improving outcomes for women affected by this disease.
The Cancer Association of South Africa’s 2020 projections estimate that by 2040, global ovarian cancer diagnoses will increase by nearly 42%, reaching approximately 445,721 cases. Alarmingly, annual deaths from ovarian cancer are expected to rise by more than 50%, with an estimated 313,617 women losing their lives to the disease each year.
Despite its severity, many cases go undetected for too long due to widespread myths, vague symptoms, and a general lack of public awareness of the condition.
What Is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovaries multiply out of control and form a tumour. If not detected early, the cancer can spread to other body parts. It can affect one or both ovaries and is more common in women over 50, though it can occur at any age. There are several types of ovarian cancer, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common. Other types include germ cell tumours and stromal tumours. Risk factors include a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, increasing age, hormone replacement therapy, and specific genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2.
Signs and Symptoms
It’s hard to find ovarian cancer early because its signs are similar to normal stomach or bladder problems. People often say they have constant bloating, pain in their belly or lower area, feel full fast or can’t eat much, need to pee frequently or right away, are tired, and have changes in their periods. These signs are often missed or seen as not a big deal. But you should see a doctor if they last over a few weeks.
Top 10 Myths About Ovarian Cancer — Debunked
Myth 1: Ovarian cancer only affects older women.
Fact: While the risk increases with age, ovarian cancer can occur in younger women too, especially those with genetic risk factors.
Myth 2: Pap smears can detect ovarian cancer.
Fact: Pap smears screen for cervical cancer, not ovarian cancer. There is currently no standard screening test for ovarian cancer.
Myth 3: Ovarian cancer always shows apparent early symptoms.
Fact: Early symptoms are often subtle and mistaken for other conditions like IBS or urinary tract infections.
Myth 4: Birth control increases the risk of ovarian cancer.
Fact: In fact, long-term use of oral contraceptives has been shown to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer.
Myth 5: A family history is the only risk factor.
Fact: While family history increases risk, most women diagnosed with ovarian cancer have no known genetic link.
Myth 6: You can’t get ovarian cancer after menopause.
Fact: Ovarian cancer is actually more common after menopause, particularly in women over 50.
Myth 7: Surgery or removing the ovaries guarantees you won’t get cancer.
Fact: While risk is reduced, cancer can still develop in surrounding tissues or from cells that have already spread.
Myth 8: Ovarian cysts are always cancerous.
Fact: Most ovarian cysts are benign and go away on their own, but a doctor should still monitor them.
Myth 9: You only need to worry about ovarian cancer if you have symptoms.
Fact: Since early symptoms are vague or absent, it is crucial to be aware of your risk and get regular checkups.
Myth 10: There’s nothing you can do to lower your risk.
Fact: Lifestyle factors like maintaining a healthy weight, using oral contraceptives (under guidance), and managing chronic conditions may reduce risk.
Why Early Detection Matters
Unlike other cancers, there’s no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. That’s why knowing the symptoms and understanding your risk is vital. Routine visits to a healthcare provider can help monitor any changes or concerns early on.
What You Can Do
Know your family history. If there’s a history of breast or ovarian cancer, speak to your doctor. Don’t ignore symptoms. Even subtle, persistent signs should be discussed with a healthcare provider. Get regular checkups. Routine health visits can help identify red flags before they become serious. Share this information. Helping just one woman recognise a symptom could make a difference.
Conclusion
Everyone is encouraged to prioritise their health by learning the facts, challenging harmful myths, and speaking up when something feels off. Awareness is power, and when it comes to ovarian cancer, it could save a life. With access to qualified GPs, specialist referrals, and chronic care support, Affinity Health continues to promote early detection and empower individuals to take charge of their well-being.”