Two ovaries are located within the pelvic cavity, one on each side of the uterus and connected to the fallopian tubes. Ovaries are part of the female reproductive system which produce an egg each month (called ovulation) during women’s childbearing years. The sex-cord stromal cells within the ovaries are responsible for production of two types of female hormones: estrogen and progesterone.

The causes of ovarian cancer are still unclear, some factors can make women more susceptible, such as:

• Aged above 45

• Having never given birth or infertility

• Sexual precocity

• Late menopause

5-10% of ovarian cancer cases are caused by an inherited faulty gene that can be passed on from parents to child. You may be at increased risk for ovarian cancer, if your family (your mother’s or father’s) have two or more female relatives with ovarian cancer. You may also in a higher risk group if you have:

• A family history of inherited breast cancer or ovarian cancer

• A family history of hereditary non-polyposis colorectal cancer (HNPCC)

Symptoms

Symptoms of early ovarian cancer are not always easy to spot. They can be vague and only present in some of the ovarian cancer cases:

• Bloating

• Pressure, discomfort or pain in abdomen

• Persistent and worsening gastro-intestinal discomfort, e.g. burning and nauseating sensations, bloating

• Change in bowel movements, either constipation or diarrhea

• Frequent need to urinate

• Fatigue, lack of appetite

• Unintended weight loss or gain

• Change in the menstruation cycle, bleeding in between cycles or after menopause

• Pain during sexual intercourse

The above symptoms are common to many health conditions other than ovarian cancer. Some of the ovarian cancer patients do not show the above symptoms too. If any of these symptoms present, please consult your doctor immediately.

Reduce your risks

• Get checked by a doctor if relevant symptoms emerge

For more cancer-related information and support, please visit the Hong Kong Cancer Fund website or contact Hong Kong Cancer Fund free enquiry hotline: (852) 3656 0800

Source: Hong Kong Cancer Fund