How does ovarian cancer occur?
We would like to explain a broad picture for the ladies to understand first that the endometrium is the lining inside the uterus. When it is close to ovulation, this lining will automatically thicken to prepare for fertilization. If fertilization does not occur during that month, this lining will shed along with blood, becoming the menstrual period.
Who is at risk?
Of course, this disease occurs only in women. The age group most commonly affected by epithelial ovarian cancer is over 50-60 years old, but general ovarian cancer can also occur in children under 20 years old. Genetics also play a significant role, accounting for up to 20%, and it is more common in women who ovulate continuously compared to those who have been pregnant.
What symptoms should be cautious of?
Normally, menstrual pain usually occurs only on the first day of menstruation or one day before the period starts. This pain is still manageable for daily life. However, if the pain becomes severe to the point of curling up or lasts from the first day to the last day of menstruation, you should urgently get checked.
What stage is this symptom indicating?
In stage 1, the cancer is confined to the ovary, so it can be treated with surgery. However, as mentioned, this disease is rarely detected in the early stage. Less than 70% of ovarian cancers are detected when the cancer has already reached stage 3 or 4. In stage 3, cancer cells spread into the peritoneal lining, producing fluids that cause rapid abdominal enlargement, with symptoms of tightness and hardness. In stage 4, cancer cells spread to the lungs, causing about 4,000 deaths per year, with a tendency to increase.
Treatment methods
Cancer is usually a disease that cannot be completely cured. The best we can do is prevent or inhibit its occurrence. Therefore, whenever abnormalities are found, such as severe menstrual pain or endometriosis, one should promptly see a doctor for timely treatment.
How to prevent ovarian cancer?
Simple ways to protect yourself include exercising regularly, eating fruits and vegetables daily, and remembering to have regular health check-ups. Reducing animal fat intake is also beneficial because consuming a lot of animal fat is a contributing factor to ovarian cancer.
Care in every treatment at Phyathai 1 Hospital
When patients arrive at the hospital, they will be referred to specialists in gynecological diseases. If diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the attending physician will present the diagnosis results at the MDT Cancer committee meeting, which includes medical personnel from various fields such as gynecology, diagnostic radiology, radiation therapy, pathology, and medical oncologists. They collaborate to plan the most effective treatment with the least side effects for each patient.
