Risk Factors & Common Symptoms ofOvarian Cancer by Dr. Amish Dalal, JaslokOvarian Cancer

“Cancer is not a concentration camp, but it shares the quality of annihilation: itnegates the possibility of life outside and beyond itself; it subsumes all living.”

– Siddhartha Mukherjee, The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer

Siddhartha Mukherjee refers to cancer as being the emperor of all maladies. Notwithout a reason. Ovarian cancer happens to be the most malignant form ofgynecological cancers, and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths amongwomen.

Three of the main determinants of ovarian cancer are age, family history andgenetics. However, the disease does not restrict itself only within families sharing apast history. Women, especially post-menopause or with a family history of breastcancer and cervical cancer are advised to undertake tests for ovarian cancer.Another factor that plays a major role in ovarian cancer is the BRCA1/2 gene thataccounts for 10% of all ovarian cancer cases. Over the past 30 years, Dr. AmishDalal has successfully diagnosed patients with ovarian cancer.

The following pose as common risk factors:

A personal history of breast cancer before 45 years of age Personal or family history of cancer in the Fallopian tube, ovarian cancer, or

primary peritoneal cancer among first or second degree relative(s), that is,sister, mother and/or grandmother

Family or personal history of the BRCA1/2gene that exists amongapproximately 10% of all ovarian cancer cases, which can be inherited

A history of breast cancer in a male relative. Studies show that a history ofbreast cancer in a first or second degree male relative (father, brother oruncle) increases the risk of cancer among the female members of the familyas well

Personal or family history of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer in afirst or second degree relative. Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer isa genetic condition that increases the risk of colon cancer, as well as cancersin other parts of the human body like the stomach, small intestine, ovaries,brain, urinary tract and the skin.

Disregarding, neglecting or not being able to recognize the symptoms of ovariancancer can have significant consequences. However, patients who have a certainlevel of awareness and who undergo regular health check-ups have a higher chanceof detecting the disease early enough to get cured. If the disease spreads to otherorgans in the body, it makes its management challenging. Dr. Amish V Dalal, aSurgical Oncologist, is highly acclaimed and sought after for his advice andtreatment.

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

The common symptoms of ovarian cancer may generally be mistaken as the side-effects of indigestion, associated with:

Bloating Abdominal pain Feeling full and/or The urgency to urinate more often

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms make sure to getthem diagnosed by an expert like Amish Dalal.

Early Diagnosis and Prevention

Awareness about the symptoms of ovarian cancer and promptly diagnosing themcan help in preventing the disease from spreading to other parts of the body.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 20% of ovarian cancersare diagnosed at an early stage. The Society states that an early detection of thedisease at a localized stage enhances the longevity of about 94% of patients bymore than 5 years.

Trans-vaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and CA-125 (Cancer Antigen-125) blood test aretwo major tests prescribed to detect ovarian cancer. After understanding thepatient’s history and evaluating the present medical condition, Dr. Amish Dalaladvises patients on the necessary tests to be conducted.

TVUS involves inserting an ultrasound wand inside the vagina. This helps to get acloser view at the uterus, ovaries and Fallopian tubes. This painless screening testusually aids in detecting the tumor in the ovary. It can also estimate whether thegrowth is cancerous or benign. A high level of CA-125 in the blood streamindicates the existence of ovarian cancer. A reduction in the CA-125 level in theblood shows that the medication is taking effect. When Amish Dalal reviews thesymptoms of his patients, he decides on the necessary screening tests accordingly.

Patients diagnosed with cancer can book an appointment with Amish Dalal atJaslok Hospital, Breach Candy Hospital, Bhatia General Hospital, Saifee Hospitalor Parsee General Hospital.