Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and is often diagnosed at an advanced stage. Jane Curtin from the Irish Cancer Society explains the signs, symptoms and treatment of ovarian cancer.
Understanding ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is a hard one to spot and as a result it is often advanced by the time a diagnosis is made. But if it is caught early, the chances of cure are higher. Methods of screening women for early signs are also being researched.
This feature aims to tell you about cancer of the ovary, how it is diagnosed and treated and how the treatment may affect you. It is important to be self-aware and understand your body so you can benefit from the help and support you need, when you need it.
Understanding ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is a hard one to spot and as a result it is often advanced by the time a diagnosis is made. But if it is caught early, the chances of cure are higher. Methods of screening women for early signs are also being researched.
This feature aims to tell you about cancer of the ovary, how it is diagnosed and treated and how the treatment may affect you. It is important to be self-aware and understand your body so you can benefit from the help and support you need, when you need it.
What causes ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is known as a gynaecological cancer as is cervical and uterine cancer. Gynaecological cancers are the second most common cancer for women in Ireland after breast cancer. There are approximately 334 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in Ireland every year.The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, however, there are a number of risk factors:
- Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have not had children.
- Risk increases with age and it is more common in post-menopausal women.
- A history of breast or ovarian cancer in the family is a risk factor.
- There is evidence to suggest that women who are taking the contraceptive pill are less likely to develop this cancer.
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