Risk Factors & Common Symptoms of

Ovarian Cancer by Dr. Amish Dalal, Jaslok

Ovarian Cancer
Cancer is not a concentration camp, but it shares the quality of annihilation: it
negates the possibility of life outside and beyond itself; it subsumes all living.
Siddhartha Mukherjee, The Emperor of All Maladies: A Biography of Cancer
Siddhartha Mukherjee refers to cancer as being the emperor of all maladies. Not
without a reason. Ovarian cancer happens to be the most malignant form of
gynecological cancers, and the fifth leading cause of cancer-related deaths among
women.

Three of the main determinants of ovarian cancer are age, family history and
genetics. However, the disease does not restrict itself only within families sharing a
past history. Women, especially post-menopause or with a family history of breast
cancer and cervical cancer are advised to undertake tests for ovarian cancer.
Another factor that plays a major role in ovarian cancer is the BRCA1/2 gene that
accounts for 10% of all ovarian cancer cases. Over the past 30 years, Dr. Amish
Dalal has successfully diagnosed patients with ovarian cancer.
The following pose as common risk factors:

A personal history of breast cancer before 45 years of age

Personal or family history of cancer in the Fallopian tube, ovarian cancer, or
primary peritoneal cancer among first or second degree relative(s), that is,
sister, mother and/or grandmother
Family or personal history of the BRCA1/2gene that exists among
approximately 10% of all ovarian cancer cases, which can be inherited
A history of breast cancer in a male relative. Studies show that a history of
breast cancer in a first or second degree male relative (father, brother or
uncle) increases the risk of cancer among the female members of the family
as well
Personal or family history of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer in a
first or second degree relative. Hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer is
a genetic condition that increases the risk of colon cancer, as well as cancers
in other parts of the human body like the stomach, small intestine, ovaries,
brain, urinary tract and the skin.

Disregarding, neglecting or not being able to recognize the symptoms of ovarian

cancer can have significant consequences. However, patients who have a certain
level of awareness and who undergo regular health check-ups have a higher chance
of detecting the disease early enough to get cured. If the disease spreads to other
organs in the body, it makes its management challenging. Dr. Amish V Dalal, a
Surgical Oncologist, is highly acclaimed and sought after for his advice and
treatment.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
The common symptoms of ovarian cancer may generally be mistaken as the sideeffects of indigestion, associated with:

Bloating
Abdominal pain
Feeling full and/or
The urgency to urinate more often

If you or someone you know experiences any of these symptoms make sure to get
them diagnosed by an expert like Amish Dalal.
Early Diagnosis and Prevention
Awareness about the symptoms of ovarian cancer and promptly diagnosing them
can help in preventing the disease from spreading to other parts of the body.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 20% of ovarian cancers

are diagnosed at an early stage. The Society states that an early detection of the
disease at a localized stage enhances the longevity of about 94% of patients by
more than 5 years.
Trans-vaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and CA-125 (Cancer Antigen-125) blood test are
two major tests prescribed to detect ovarian cancer. After understanding the
patients history and evaluating the present medical condition, Dr. Amish Dalal
advises patients on the necessary tests to be conducted.
TVUS involves inserting an ultrasound wand inside the vagina. This helps to get a
closer view at the uterus, ovaries and Fallopian tubes. This painless screening test
usually aids in detecting the tumor in the ovary. It can also estimate whether the
growth is cancerous or benign. A high level of CA-125 in the blood stream
indicates the existence of ovarian cancer. A reduction in the CA-125 level in the
blood shows that the medication is taking effect. When Amish Dalal reviews the
symptoms of his patients, he decides on the necessary screening tests accordingly.
Patients diagnosed with cancer can book an appointment with Amish Dalal at
Jaslok Hospital, Breach Candy Hospital, Bhatia General Hospital, Saifee Hospital
or Parsee General Hospital.