Empowering Awareness: Exploring Ovarian Cancer on World Ovarian Cancer Day

 

Introduction:

World Ovarian Cancer Day, observed annually on May 8th, is a day dedicated to raising awareness about ovarian cancer, its symptoms, risk factors, and the importance of early detection and treatment. The World Ovarian Cancer Coalition, an official Strategic Advocacy Partner of the IGCS and a significant ally within the International Gynaecologic Cancer Advocacy Network, is the organization behind this initiative.

Ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer in women worldwide and the eighth most common cause of cancer death in women.

What is Ovarian Cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, the female reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones. It can occur at any age but is most commonly diagnosed in women over the age of 50. There are several types of ovarian cancer, with epithelial ovarian cancer being the most common.

Global Statistics:

According to recent statistics from the World Health Organization (WHO) and other reporting agencies:

• Ovarian cancer is the eighth most common cancer in women worldwide.
• In 2020, there were an estimated 313,959 new cases of ovarian cancer globally.
• Ovarian cancer is responsible for approximately 4.7% of all cancer deaths among women.

Risk Factors:

Several factors can increase a woman's risk of developing ovarian cancer, including:

• Age: The risk increases with age, particularly after menopause.
• Family History: Women with a family history of ovarian cancer or certain genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2) are at a higher risk.
• Personal History: Women who have had breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer are at an increased risk.
• Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT): Long-term use of HRT may increase the risk.
• Obesity: Being overweight or obese may increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Symptoms:

Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because its symptoms can be subtle and easily overlooked. Recognizing the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer is crucial for early detection and treatment. The B.E.A.T. mnemonic is a helpful tool for remembering the common symptoms of ovarian cancer: Common symptoms include:

• Bloating: Persistent bloating or feeling full quickly
• Eating Difficulties: Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Abdominal/Pelvic Pain: Pelvic or abdominal pain or discomfort
• Toilet Changes: Changes in bowel habits urinary urgency or frequency

 

Early Detection and Diagnosis:

Early detection of ovarian cancer is crucial for successful treatment. Unfortunately, there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, but regular pelvic exams and imaging tests may help detect the disease early. If ovarian cancer is suspected, further tests such as blood tests and biopsies may be done to confirm the diagnosis.

Treatment Options:

 Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease, the type of ovarian cancer, and the woman's overall health. Treatment options may include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapy. In some cases, a combination of these treatments may be used.

Role of Physical Therapy

Physical therapy can play a crucial role in the care of women with ovarian cancer, both during and after treatment. Physical therapists can help manage symptoms and side effects, improve physical function and quality of life, and promote overall well-being. Some ways physical therapy can benefit women with ovarian cancer include:

§  Pre-rehabilitation: Physical therapists can design exercise programs to improve strength, flexibility, and endurance before surgery or chemotherapy, which may help improve recovery outcomes.

§  Rehabilitation: After surgery or chemotherapy, physical therapy can help women regain strength, mobility, and function. This may include exercises to improve range of motion, balance training, and pain management techniques.

§  Lymphedema Management: Some women may develop lymphedema, a swelling condition, following surgery or radiation therapy. Physical therapists can provide manual lymphatic drainage and prescribe exercises to help manage this condition.

§  Pelvic Floor Rehabilitation: Women with ovarian cancer may experience pelvic floor dysfunction, leading to issues such as urinary incontinence or pelvic pain. Physical therapists specialized in pelvic floor rehabilitation can provide treatment to address these issues.

By incorporating physical therapy into the care plan for women with ovarian cancer, healthcare providers can help improve their quality of life and overall well-being.

Conclusion:

On World Ovarian Cancer Day, let us raise awareness about this disease, educate women about the symptoms and risk factors, and emphasize the importance of early detection and treatment. By working together, we can help reduce the burden of ovarian cancer and improve outcomes for women around the world.