Bangkok: Ovarian cancer remains a significant health threat to women, with symptoms such as abdominal bloating and pain persisting beyond two weeks serving as critical warning signs. This form of cancer ranks as the third most common cancer in women, following breast and cervical cancers, yet it is the leading cause of death among gynecological cancers.
According to Thai News Agency, there are approximately 2,700 new cases of ovarian cancer each year in Thailand, with a distressing mortality rate of 53%, averaging four deaths daily. The high mortality rate is largely attributed to the asymptomatic nature of the disease in its early stages, resulting in 70-80% of patients being diagnosed at advanced stages.
Recovery rates vary significantly depending on the stage at which the disease is detected. Early detection at Stage 1 offers a recovery chance of 90% or higher, but only 25% of cases are identified at this stage. As the disease progresses to Stage 2, the recovery rate drops to approximately 70%. By Stage 3, the chance of recovery declines further to 30-40%, and at Stage 4, it falls to a mere 15-20%.
The initial symptoms of ovarian cancer often mimic gastrointestinal issues, including abdominal pain, bloating, and fullness, which makes early detection challenging. It is crucial for individuals experiencing these symptoms for more than 2-4 weeks without improvement from stomach medication to seek medical evaluation promptly.
Several risk factors contribute to the development of ovarian cancer. Genetic factors account for 15-20% of cases, particularly in individuals with a family history of breast or ovarian cancer. Age is another factor, with increased risk in women aged 50-70 and older. Lifestyle choices, such as obesity and high-fat diets, also play a role. Additionally, women who have never been pregnant or have not given birth are at higher risk due to continuous ovulation and ovarian scarring.
Preventative measures and regular screenings are vital in combating ovarian cancer. Annual gynecological checkups are recommended, starting at age 21 for those who are sexually active and at age 30 for those who are not, or sooner if abnormalities are detected. Genetic testing for cancer-causing genes is advised, especially for those with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, and should be discussed with healthcare professionals.