What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?

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Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer: A Comprehensive Overview

Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage due to its subtle and non-specific symptoms, which can be easily mistaken for other common conditions. Understanding these symptoms is crucial for early detection and improving survival rates.

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Abdominal and Pelvic Pain

Abdominal or pelvic pain is one of the most frequently reported symptoms among women with ovarian cancer. Studies indicate that more than 70% of patients with high-risk early-stage ovarian cancer present with abdominal or pelvic pain. This symptom is also highlighted in other research, showing a significant association with ovarian cancer diagnosis .

Abdominal Distension and Bloating

Abdominal distension or increased girth is another prominent symptom. Women often report feeling unusually bloated or experiencing a noticeable increase in abdominal size . This symptom is particularly significant as it has a high positive likelihood ratio for ovarian cancer diagnosis.

Gastrointestinal Symptoms

Gastrointestinal issues such as loss of appetite, feeling full quickly, and altered bowel habits are commonly associated with ovarian cancer. These symptoms can mimic other conditions like irritable bowel syndrome, making diagnosis challenging . Loss of appetite, in particular, has been identified as a notable symptom in multiple studies .

Urinary Symptoms

Increased urinary frequency and urgency are also reported by women with ovarian cancer. These symptoms, although non-specific, are significant when they occur frequently and are of new onset .

Fatigue and Lack of Energy

Fatigue and a general lack of energy are common among ovarian cancer patients. This symptom is often reported alongside other more specific symptoms like abdominal pain and bloating .

Menstrual and Fertility Changes

Changes in menstrual cycles and fertility issues are also noted among women with ovarian cancer. These symptoms can include irregular periods, heavier bleeding, or postmenopausal bleeding .

Symptom Patterns and Diagnosis

Symptom Duration and Frequency

The duration and frequency of symptoms play a crucial role in the diagnosis of ovarian cancer. Symptoms that occur more than 12 times per month and are of recent onset are particularly concerning . Research indicates that women often experience symptoms for several months before a diagnosis is made, emphasizing the need for awareness and timely medical consultation.

Symptom Combinations

The combination of symptoms can significantly increase the likelihood of an ovarian cancer diagnosis. For instance, the presence of abdominal mass, abdominal distension, and pelvic pain together has a high positive likelihood ratio for the disease. The Ovarian Cancer Symptom Index, which includes a combination of these symptoms, has been validated in multiple studies and shows high specificity for ovarian cancer.

Conclusion

Recognizing the symptoms of ovarian cancer is vital for early detection and improving survival rates. Common symptoms include abdominal and pelvic pain, abdominal distension, gastrointestinal issues, urinary symptoms, fatigue, and menstrual changes. Awareness of these symptoms and their patterns can lead to timely medical consultation and potentially earlier diagnosis, which is crucial for better outcomes. Further research and public awareness campaigns are needed to enhance symptom recognition and encourage early health-seeking behaviors.