A Voice from the Eastern Door
A Voice from the Eastern Door
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian Cancer is a cancer that starts in the cells of the ovary or ovaries. The ovaries are two small oval shaped organs that lie deep in the pelvis on either side of the uterus (womb). The ovaries produce the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. These hormones help control reproduction and sexual development. As a woman ages and reaches menopause, the ovaries produce less of these hormones and her periods gradually stop.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
There are three types of ovarian cancers. The first type is the Epithelial cell cancer and is the most common type of ovarian cancer. Epithelial cell cancer starts in the cells that cover the outer surface of the ovary. The second type of ovarian cancer is the Germ cell tumours which start in the egg cells within the ovary and generally occur in younger women. The third type of ovarian cancer is the Stromal tumours which start in the connective tissue cells that hold the ovary together. Since the Epithelial cell cancer is the most common, the information regarding ovarian cancer will focus on that type.
Causes of Ovarian Cancer
There is no single cause of ovarian cancer, but the following are factors that may increase a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer. These risk factors include:
Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
In the early stages, ovarian cancer does not cause any symptoms. The symptoms that may occur at a later stage of Ovarian cancer may include:
Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer
Once you have seen your doctor, he/she may perform a number of tests to diagnose if you have Ovarian Cancer. These tests may include:
Treatments for Ovarian Cancer
The treatment of ovarian cancer depends on the general health of the patient, as well as the type, stage, and grade of the cancer. The treatments available for ovarian cancer may include:
Preventing Cancer
It is very important to remember that cancer is preventable. The following are ways in which you can prevent yourself from developing cancer. Remember to:
Call Community Health for more information 613-575-2341 ext. 3225
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