Ovarian cancer: stages, causes and prevention

Ovarian cancer is a metastatic disease that forms in ovarian cells and is often difficult to diagnose in the early stages due to the lack of specific symptoms. In this article, we will look at the stages, causes and ways to prevent ovarian cancer.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is classified into four stages, and understanding these is essential for choosing the appropriate treatment method:

• Stage I: The disease is confined to only one of the ovaries or possibly the area around it.
• Stage II: Spread of the cancer to other parts of the hip bones or uterine tube.
• Stage III: Spread of the disease in the intestine or abdominal area.
• Stage IV: Metastasis of the cancer to distant organs such as the lung, liver or other organs.

Causes of Ovarian Cancer

The causes of ovarian cancer are not yet completely clear, but some factors are known to increase the risk:

• Genetic factors: Carriers of mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes have a higher risk of developing ovarian cancer.
• Age: Risks increase with age, with women diagnosed most often after 50.
• History in the family: If there is a history of ovarian cancer in the family, the risks increase.

Ovarian Cancer Prevention

Because early diagnosis of ovarian cancer is often difficult, an emphasis on prevention is essential:

• Regular medical examinations: Women with increased risk or preexisting factors should undergo regular check-ups, including blood tests and thorough gynecological examinations.
• Surgical removal of the ovaries (oophorectomy): For high-risk women, this procedural method can be undertaken in advance once family planning is completed.
• Genetic risk assessment: Genetic testing can help identify risk carriers and take precautions.

Treatment and Prognosis

Treatment for ovarian cancer depends on the stage of the disease, but usually involves a combination of:

• Surgery: Removal of affected tissues or organs.
• Chemotherapy: Administration of drugs that destroy or slow cell growth.
• Radiotherapy: It is used to destroy cancer cells.

The prognosis of ovarian cancer depends on early diagnosis and the effectiveness of treatment. Regular medical examinations and awareness of risk factors play a key role in improving prognosis.

Ovarian cancer is a difficult to diagnose and serious disease, but by taking proactive preventive measures and timely medical care, the chances of successfully treating and overcoming the disease are greatly increased.