As we enter ovarian cancer awareness month — we at ScreenMe think it is incredibly important to understand more about ovarian cancer including its causes, symptoms, diagnosis and treatment. 

Firstly — if you believe you may have ovarian cancer, then it is of upmost importance that you speak to your GP and arrange a check-up. 

What is it?

The ovaries are located either side of the uterus, and most women are born with two of these (one for each side). Ovarian cancer can affect anyone who has ovaries. 

There are a few types of ovarian cancer including :

1. Epithelial ovarian cancer 

• This is the most common, being responsible for over 80% of ovarian cancers
• There are multiple sub-types, but it starts in the epithelial cells 

2. Borderline tumours 

• These tumours also involve the epithelial cells — however they are not cancer and do not spread to other parts of the body

3. Germ cell ovarian tumours

• These tumours are much rarer 
• In general, these tend to affect younger people 
• These tumours start in the ovarian cells

Causes

There is not one set cause” for ovarian cancer, but there are a few risk factors that may increase your likelihood of developing this. These include:

Lifestyle 

• Diet, lifestyle and the way you live your life will impact your risk not just of ovarian cancer, but of all cancers. 
• Some of the lifestyle choices which raise your risk of ovarian cancer are:
  • Smoking 
  • Being overweight 
  • Diet 

Other cancers 

• If you have had other cancers, in particular breast cancer, you are more likely to develop ovarian cancer. 

HRT

• HRT very slightly increases your risk of ovarian cancer 

Conditions

• Some conditions may raise your risk of developing ovarian cancer such as: 
  • Endometriosis 
  • Diabetes 

Age 

• Most ovarian cancers develop in women over the age of 65. Ovarian cancer is rare for those under the age of 30. 

Inheritance 

• Family history plays a role in your likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. 
• Some inherited genetic conditions make you more predisposed to developing ovarian cancer. This includes:
  • Mutation of BRCA1 & BRCA2 genes 
  • Lynch syndrome 
  • Peutz-Jeghers syndrome 

Symptoms

While these symptoms are associated with ovarian cancer and if you persistently experience these, you should definitely speak to a GP — but having these symptoms does not DEFINITELY mean you have ovarian cancer — so do not panic and book a check-up, as there are plenty of other non-cancerous conditions that this could also be. 

Symptoms include: 

• Reduced appetite & feeling full quickly 
• Pain in the lower stomach and/or back 
• Frequent urination & the feeling that you must urgently pee
• Persistent bloating 
• Changes to bowel function 
• Unexplained weight loss, and/or fatigue

How can ovarian cancer be diagnosed? 

Firstly, speak to your GP — they can then arrange the appropriate blood tests and examinations to explore whether you may have ovarian cancer or not. These include:

• CA125 blood test
  • To check for increased levels of this protein, which tends to be higher in those with ovarian cancer 
• Ultrasound scans
  • To check your organs 

Treatment 

Should you be diagnosed with ovarian cancer — do not worry as you are not alone, and there are multiple options available to you, as well as a lot of support groups. 

What treatment is right for you will ultimately be decided by you and your doctor, as different strategies work for different individuals. Click here if you would like to learn more about the different options available to you, should you be diagnosed. 

Support groups include: 

• Ovacome
  • 08000087054
  • Is a charity focused on ovarian cancer information and support 
• Macmillian Cancer Support
  • This site covers all types of cancer, not just ovarian cancer
• Cancer Research UK
  • This organisation has a lot of resources on many different types of cancer — as well as links to a variety of different services and support. 
• Lynch Syndrome UK
  • A service specifically for those with Lynch Syndrome 
• The Eve Appeal 
  • 08088020019
  • nurse@eveappeal.org.uk
  • This charity focuses on gynaecological cancers, including ovarian cancer

ScreenMe is also here to support you at every stage of life — it is time to close the gender health gap and learn more about our own bodies, health and wellness. Our experts are available for consultations should you wish to speak to someone who is ready to listen to your needs, support you, and guide you to becoming your very best self.

Jessica Hobbis