What is ovarian cancer and what are the symptoms it causes?

Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that occurs in the ovaries and requires high attention. Its main causes include genetics, environmental factors, endocrine disorders, inflammation or other diseases. In terms of symptoms, it is usually hidden and not obvious in the early stage, often manifested as abdominal distension, pelvic pain, etc., and you should seek medical attention in time for screening and diagnosis.

1. Analysis of the causes of ovarian cancer

-Genetic factors: Mutations in some genetic genes can significantly increase the risk of ovarian cancer, such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations. Women with a history of ovarian cancer or breast cancer in their immediate family are at higher risk. Such people need to undergo regular genetic testing and early screening.

-Environmental and lifestyle factors: Long-term exposure to estrogen, such as late marriage and childbearing, never having children, hormone replacement therapy, etc., can lead to abnormal proliferation of ovarian cells and increase the possibility of cancer. At the same time, high-fat diet and bad lifestyle habits (such as smoking and alcoholism) can also affect ovarian health.

-Endocrine and inflammation: Ovarian cancer is closely related to hormonal disorders, especially polycystic ovary syndrome and long-term chronic oophoritis, which may further induce cancer.

-Other pathological conditions: Chronic diseases such as pelvic inflammation and endometriosis may also cause ovarian cell mutations. Age is a high-risk factor, and women over 40 years old, especially those who are postmenopausal, need to pay special attention to the results of physical examinations.

2. Main symptoms of ovarian cancer

- Hidden early symptoms: The early symptoms of ovarian cancer are often not obvious and are easily overlooked. Low-specific manifestations such as mild abdominal distension, decreased appetite, and increased abdominal circumference may occur.

-Symptoms of disease progression: As cancer progresses, lower abdominal pain, pelvic heaviness, and bladder pressure symptoms such as urgency and frequency of urination may occur. Some patients may experience irregular menstruation and abnormal vaginal bleeding.

-Common symptoms in the late stage include obvious abdominal distension, weight loss, anemia, and dyspnea caused by abdominal effusion.

3. Treatment, prevention and control of ovarian cancer

-Surgery: Patients with early stage disease can undergo surgical removal of ovarian tumors (such as oophorectomy), which can be combined with hysterectomy if necessary. Patients with advanced stage disease need to undergo cytoreductive surgery to reduce tumor burden.

-Chemotherapy: Chemotherapy is one of the important treatments for ovarian cancer. For example, combined chemotherapy with platinum drugs (such as paclitaxel + cisplatin) can eliminate residual cancer cells.

-Targeted therapy: In recent years, PARP inhibitors (such as Olaparib and Niraparib) have achieved good results, especially for patients with BRCA gene mutations.

-Early screening and prevention: Ultrasound examination and tumor marker (such as CA125, HE4) detection are particularly important for high-risk groups. A healthy diet (such as high-fiber, antioxidant foods), moderate exercise and a regular schedule are also important for reducing the risk of cancer.

Ovarian cancer is a disease that seriously threatens women's health, especially because early symptoms are hidden and easily ignored. Regular screening, attention to high-risk factors and early intervention can significantly reduce its morbidity and mortality. Once suspicious symptoms are found, you should consult a professional doctor immediately to strive for the best treatment opportunity.