Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and can easily be mistaken for less serious conditions such as gastrointestinal issues or the natural aging process. However, certain symptoms are more commonly associated with ovarian cancer and should not be ignored, especially if they are persistent and represent a change from what is normal for your body. Ovarian cancer is often dubbed the "silent killer" due to its subtle, easily overlooked symptoms.
Unlike many other cancers, ovarian cancer frequently goes undetected until it has advanced to a stage where treatment options are limited, and survival rates are significantly lower. Understanding and recognizing the early symptoms of ovarian cancer as shared by Dr. Anuja Abhyankar - Medical Oncologist, Sunrise Oncology Centre is crucial for timely diagnosis and treatment, which can vastly improve outcomes.
The Importance of Early Detection Early detection of ovarian cancer significantly increases the chances of successful treatment. According to the American Cancer Society, the five-year survival rate for women diagnosed with localized ovarian cancer (cancer that has not spread beyond the ovaries) is approximately 93%. Unfortunately, only about 20% of ovarian cancer cases are diagnosed at this early stage.
Most women are diagnosed at a more advanced stage, where the cancer has spread beyond the ovaries, making treatment more complex and less effective. Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague and can e.