As September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, CHRISTUS Health encourages women to recognize the warning signs of ovarian cancer and seek medical attention when symptoms persist or feel unusual.

Often referred to as a “silent disease,” ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because symptoms are frequently vague and easily attributed to other, less serious conditions.

“Ovarian cancer does not always cause obvious symptoms in its early stages. Most symptoms are vague and often gastrointestinal or urinary as opposed to gynecologic,” said Dr. D’Andra Bingham, OB-GYN with CHRISTUS Health. “When ovarian cancer is identified early, it is more likely to be limited to the ovary rather than advance or spread to other areas of their body, giving patients a much better prognosis.”

The American Cancer Society estimates about 21,000 women in the U.S. will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year, with more than 12,000 deaths. Ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest cancers affecting women because it is often diagnosed after it has already spread beyond the ovaries.

Bingham said symptoms can include:

• Persistent bloating
• Abdominal distention
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Loss of appetite
• Urinary urgency or frequency
• Changes in bowel habits
• Unexplained fatigue

“Although the symptoms of ovarian cancer may be commonly caused by other conditions, women should not hesitate to contact their provider if symptoms occur frequently or persist for more than a few weeks,” said Dr. Jon Northam, OB-GYN with CHRISTUS Health. “This can provide an opportunity for an in-depth discussion of personal risk and risk-reducing strategies.”

Northam said the following risk factors increase a woman’s chance of developing ovarian cancer: advancing age, family history of ovarian cancer and certain genetic factors.

“Knowledge is a powerful tool in the fight against ovarian cancer,” he said.

To find a primary care physician or to learn more about ovarian cancer, visit our website, christushealth.org.  

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