Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month | 12 Sep 2024

Source: TH

Why in News?

The American Association for Cancer Research, the world’s oldest and largest professional organization dedicated to cancer research, has recognized September as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.

• This month is dedicated to raising awareness about this deadly gynecological cancer.

What are the Key Facts Related to Ovarian Cancer?

• About: 
  • Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor that forms in the tissues of an ovary. The ovaries are a pair of female reproductive glands that make eggs and female hormones.
  • Cancer is a disease in which abnormal cells in the body grow out of control and form a tumor.
• Epidemiology: Ovarian cancer contributes to 6.6% of all women’s cancers in India. The disease is particularly problematic due to late diagnosis, which significantly impacts survival rates.
  • In India, ovarian cancer ranks among the top 3 cancers (after breast and cervix cancer) affecting women.
  • In 2022, India reported 47,333 new ovarian cancer cases and 32,978 deaths.
• Symptoms: Common symptoms include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, frequent urination, indigestion, constipation, back pain, persistent fatigue, weight loss, and postmenopausal vaginal bleeding. 
  • These symptoms often lead to misdiagnosis or delayed treatment.
• Type of Ovarian Cancer:

  • Type I: Less common, typically diagnosed early, and has a better prognosis.

  • Type II: More aggressive, usually diagnosed at an advanced stage, and responsible for the majority of ovarian cancer deaths.
• Survival Rates: The survival rate is heavily dependent on the stage at which the cancer is detected. 
  • Research indicates that about 20% of patients with advanced ovarian cancer who receive optimal treatment can be disease-free at 10 years.
• Screening Challenges: Unlike breast or cervical cancer, there are no effective screening tests for ovarian cancer. 
  
  • The CA125 blood test, while useful for monitoring diagnosed cases, is not recommended for routine screening due to its limited specificity and potential for false positives.
    • The CA 125 test measures a blood protein to diagnose or monitor ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer.
• Genetic Factors: Ovarian cancer has a strong hereditary component, with 65-85% of hereditary cases linked to mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes. 
  • Women with these mutations face significantly higher risks of developing ovarian cancer.
  • BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes help repair DNA and regulate cell division. Mutations in these genes raise the risk of breast, ovarian, and other cancers. 
• Lifestyle Factors: Certain lifestyle choices, including talcum powder usage and exposure to chemicals in hair products, have been discussed as potential risk factors for ovarian cancer. 
  • Additionally, Hormone Replacement Therapy (HRT) has been associated with an increased risk. 
  • HRT is commonly used to treat menopausal symptoms like hot flashes and vaginal discomfort.
• Reducing Risk:
  • Genetic counseling is crucial for women with a family history or genetic mutation (BRCA1/BRCA2) linked to ovarian or breast cancer, providing tailored guidance on risk management and preventive measures.
  • A diet rich in fruits, vegetables, whole grains, and antioxidants may help reduce ovarian cancer risk.
  • Maintaining a healthy weight through diet and exercise may lower the risk.
  • Regular gynecological check-ups can help monitor reproductive health and detect potential issues early.

What are the Government Initiatives Related to Cancer Treatment?

• National Programme for Prevention and Control of Cancer, Diabetes, Cardiovascular Diseases and Stroke
• National Cancer Grid
• National Cancer Awareness Day
• HPV Vaccine

Read More: Rising Cancer Concerns.