DISEASE SCANNER

Global Incurable Diseases Tracker

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Cancer

Ovarian Cancer

HIGH SEVERITY

Cancer arising from the ovaries or fallopian tubes. Most common subtype is high-grade serous carcinoma (70%). Often diagnosed at stage III/IV due to vague early symptoms and lack of effective screening. BRCA1/2 mutations increase risk significantly.

Global Affected

310.0K

Countries

15

Symptoms

Bloating
Pelvic/abdominal pain
Difficulty eating/feeling full quickly
Urinary urgency/frequency
Fatigue
Back pain
Menstrual changes

Treatment Options

Surgery
Chemotherapy
Radiation therapy
Immunotherapy
Targeted therapy
Hormone therapy
Stem cell transplant
Palliative care

Risk Factors

1Age
2Family history
3Genetic mutations
4Smoking
5Alcohol consumption
6Obesity
7Physical inactivity
8Environmental exposures
9Infections (HPV, HBV, HCV, H. pylori)

Diagnostic Methods

  • 1Biopsy
  • 2Imaging (CT, MRI, PET)
  • 3Tumor markers
  • 4Genetic testing
  • 5Endoscopy
  • 6Blood tests
  • 7Screening programs

Prognosis

Early-stage (I-II) has 80-90% 5-year survival with surgery + chemotherapy. Advanced stage (III-IV) has 30-40% 5-year survival despite optimal cytoreduction. BRCA-mutant tumors respond better to platinum and PARP inhibitors with improved survival. Complete gross resection at primary surgery is key prognostic factor. CA-125 surveillance after treatment. Recurrent platinum-sensitive disease has 30-40% response to retreatment. Maintenance PARP inhibitors extend progression-free survival.

Prevention

  • Smoking cessation
  • Sun protection
  • Healthy diet
  • Regular exercise
  • Vaccination (HPV, HBV)
  • Screening programs
  • Limit alcohol
  • Maintain healthy weight

Research Status

PARP inhibitors (olaparib, niraparib, rucaparib) for BRCA mutated or HRD-positive tumors. Immunotherapy limited efficacy. Bevacizumab with chemotherapy. CA-125 and HE4 biomarkers. Interval debulking surgery.

Sources

  • https://www.cancer.gov
  • https://www.who.int/cancer
  • https://www.cancer.org

Medical Disclaimer

This information is for educational purposes only. Always consult healthcare professionals for medical advice, diagnosis, and treatment.