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Menopause itself is not associated with an increased risk of developing
cancer. However, the rates of many cancers, including ovarian cancer, do
increase with age. In addition, some of the drugs used to manage menopausal
symptoms may increase or decrease a person's cancer risk.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is a malignant tumor that develops in a woman's ovaries.
Ovarian cancer is the fourth leading cause of cancer death among women. It most
often occurs in women in their 50s.
When found in its earliest stages, ovarian cancer can be cured 90 to 95
percent of the
time. Unfortunately, early ovarian cancer is hard to detect. Many cases of
ovarian cancer are found after the cancer has spread to other organs. In these
cases, the cancer is much more difficult to treat and cure.
What causes ovarian cancer?
The cause of ovarian cancer is not yet known. You have an increased risk of
ovarian cancer if you:
- Have a family history of ovarian cancer
- Have never been pregnant
- Are over the age of 50, since the likelihood of developing ovarian
cancer increases as you age
Studies show that women who have had children, who breastfeed or who use
hormonal contraceptives (like birth control pills) are less likely to develop
ovarian cancer. These factors decrease the number of times a woman ovulates, and
studies suggest that reducing the number of ovulations during a woman's lifetime
may lower the risk of ovarian cancer.
Menopause itself does not cause ovarian cancer. But some studies have linked
long term estrogen therapy (>10 years) to an increased risk of ovarian
cancer. Women on estrogen therapy should discuss the risk and benefit of this treatment with
their doctor.
What are the symptoms of ovarian cancer?
In its early stages, ovarian cancer has few symptoms. The first sign of
ovarian cancer is usually an enlarged ovary. The ovaries are located deep within
the pelvic cavity, so swelling may go unnoticed until it becomes more advanced.
Symptoms of more advanced ovarian cancer include:
- Swollen abdomen (caused by build-up of fluids produced by the tumor)
- Lower abdominal and leg pain
- Sudden weight loss or gain
- Change in bowel or bladder function
- Nausea
- Swelling in the legs
How can I protect myself from ovarian cancer?
It's difficult for a woman to protect herself from ovarian cancer. Here are a
few steps you can take to lessen your risk:
- Get a yearly pelvic exam.
- Report any irregular vaginal bleeding or abdominal pain to your
doctor.
- If you have close family members (mother, sister or daughter) with
ovarian cancer, discuss your risk factors with your doctor.
- Don't use excessive talcum powder on or near the vagina.
- Eat a low-fat diet.
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