Ovarian cancer is often called the 'silent killer' due to its subtle symptoms that are easy to dismiss and frequently mistaken for other health issues like bloating, indigestion, or general fatigue. Yet, this disease claims thousands of lives each year and is one of the leading causes of cancer deaths among women. The American Cancer Society estimates 20,890 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer and about 12,730 women will die from ovarian cancer in 2025.
As March marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, experts are urging women to pay close attention to their bodies and not overlook the warning signs. Some of these can be spotted during routine everyday activities like at mealtimes. Dr Alexis Missick, a GP working with UK Meds, shares four silent symptoms that could signal ovarian cancer. She also talks about lesser-known red flags that every woman should know.
According to Mayoclinic, ovarian cancer begins when cells in or near the ovaries develop changes in their DNA which lead the cells to grow and multiply quickly, creating tumours. The cancer cells continue living when healthy cells die. They can also invade nearby tissues and spread to other parts of the body. The ovaries produce, store, and release eggs for reproduction and also make the female sex hormones oestrogen and progesterone.
Women suffering from ovarian cancer can experience pain in the pelvic area, or affect their toilet habits. One sign can be visible at dinner table where women may feel full very fast.
The most common type of the disease is epithelial ovarian cancer, which can begin in cells covering the surface of the ovary. The less common ovarian cancers include germ cell tumours and stromal tumours.
Ovarian cancer mostly affects older women over 50, but can also impact younger women.
Ovarian cancer risk increases with age, especially after menopause. Factors like inherited gene mutations (such as BRCA1 and BRCA2), family history, obesity, hormone replacement therapy, endometriosis, early menstruation, late menopause, and never being pregnant can also raise the risk.
Silent signs of ovarian cancer
Dr Missick revealed four silent symptoms of ovarian cancer to The Sun:
Bloating or swelling of the abdomen
Pelvic pain or discomfort
Feeling full quickly when eating
Needing to pee more often and more frequently
Unusual signs
"There are other, more unusual symptoms of ovarian cancer which people may not commonly associate with cancer," the GP says.
Pain during sex
Swelling and pain in the legs
Extreme fatigue
Changes in bowel habits
Back pain
Irregular periods
Treatment of ovarian cancer
"The treatment for ovarian cancer is completely dependent on the stage and type of ovarian cancer you are diagnosed with and you will be advised on the best option by your doctor.
"Some treatment options include surgery to remove as much of the cancer as possible, chemotherapy to shrink the tumours and hormone therapy.
"It is important to have thorough discussions with your doctor about the best course of treatment," Dr Missick said.
Ovarian cancer cases, if detected as stage 1, can help 90% of women live beyond five years.
PreventionTaking birth control pills reduces the risk of ovarian cancer. If you have a family history of breast and ovarian cancers, you should consult your healthcare expert.
