Ovarian cancer is a serious and often life-threatening condition, ranks fifth in cancer-related deaths among women, and is the deadliest of the cancers affecting the female reproductive system. In India, ovarian cancer surgery and treatment have become more advanced, yet early diagnosis remains essential for improving survival rates.
In this article, we will discuss in detail all about ovarian cancer, its symptoms, detection methods, treatment options, and why seeking care from a qualified Gynecologic Oncologist in Delhi, like Dr. Kanika Batra Modi, is essential for effective management.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Ovarian cancer originates in the ovaries, the oval-shaped reproductive organs responsible for producing eggs and hormones like estrogen and progesterone. This cancer can also begin in the fallopian tubes. Recent research suggests that many ovarian cancers actually start in the fallopian tubes before spreading to the ovaries.
Ovarian cancer has various forms, categorized into three main types based on the cells involved:
- Epithelial tumors: These start from the cells lining the outer surface of the ovary and are the most common, accounting for nearly 90% of ovarian cancers. Subtypes include:
- Serous carcinomas
- Endometrioid carcinoma
- Clear cell carcinoma
- Mucinous carcinoma
- Germ cell tumors: These originate in the egg-producing cells. While they are rare, accounting for only 2% of cases, they often have a good prognosis if detected early.
- Stromal tumors: These are even rarer, originating from the cells that produce hormones and provide structural support to the ovary.
What Are the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer?
When ovarian cancer initially begins, it may not present any noticeable symptoms. When symptoms do appear, they are often mistaken for more common health issues. Its common symptoms include:
- Persistent bloating
- Indigestion or nausea
- Pelvic or abdominal pain
- Back pain
- Feeling full quickly after eating
- Unintentional weight loss
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate
- Unexplained fatigue
- Pain during intercourse
- Menstrual changes
If you have a history of ovarian cancer or have been experiencing any of these symptoms for more than two weeks, it’s essentialto consult Dr. Kanika Batra Modi, the best gynecologic oncologist in Delhi, for further evaluation.
What Causes Ovarian Cancer?
The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unclear, but certain factors increase the risk. Ovarian cancer begins when cells in or near the ovaries mutate, causing them to grow rapidly and form tumors. These cancerous cells survive longer than healthy cells and invade nearby tissues, or they can even spread to other parts of the body.
What Are the Risk Factors of Ovarian Cancer?
Factors that can increase the risk of developing ovarian cancer include:
- Older age
- Inherited gene changes
- A family history of ovarian or breast cancer
- Endometriosis
- Being overweight or obese
- Smoking
- lack of physical activity
- Never having been pregnant
- Prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
What Are the Diagnostic Tools for Ovarian Cancer?
For those at risk or experiencing symptoms, several diagnostic tests can be performed, including:
- Pelvic exam
- Blood tests: CA-125 test
- Imaging Tests: Pelvic ultrasound, PET scans, CT scans, or MRIs
- Surgical evaluation
- Laparoscopy
- Genetic testing
What Are the Options for Ovarian Cancer Treatment in India?
The ovarian cancer treatment in India include:
- Surgery: This is the primary treatment for ovarian cancer and involves removing the tumor. Depending on the stage, surgery may include removing one or both ovaries, fallopian tubes, and the uterus.
- Chemotherapy: Often administered after surgery to kill any remaining cancer cells.
- Immunotherapy: Immunotherapy helps the immune system to detect and attack cancer cells by disrupting proteins that allow cancer to hide.
- Hormone therapy: Blocks hormones that promote tumor growth.
- Targeted therapy: Kills cancer cells while sparing healthy ones.
- Radiation therapy: Uses X-rays to destroy cancer cells, especially for cancer beyond the ovaries.
Advanced ovarian cancer treatment in India has improved with the availability of targeted therapies and minimally invasive surgical procedures, including robotic and laparoscopic ovarian cancer surgery in Delhi, offering better outcomes and fewer side effects.
Why Choose Dr. Kanika Batra Modi for the Best Ovarian Cancer Surgery in Delhi
Choosing the right Gynecologic Oncologist is essential for effective ovarian cancer surgery in India. Dr. Kanika Batra Modi is a renowned Gynecologic Oncologist in Delhi, offering personalized care and advanced treatment options for ovarian cancer surgery in India.
With extensive experience in treating gynecologic cancers, she is skilled in performing complex ovarian cancer surgeries using minimally invasive techniques, including robotic and laparoscopic methods. Book an appointment with her for complete care and the best results, from early diagnosis to advanced ovarian cancer treatment in Delhi.