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Health experts emphasize the critical role of routine screening programs in the early detection of ovarian cancer, a disease notorious for its late diagnosis and high mortality rates among women. Ovarian cancer stands as the fifth most common cause of death among women globally, highlighting the urgency for effective screening measures.
Dr. Kanav Kumar, a Surgical Oncologist at the Punyashlok Ahilyadevi Holkar Head & Neck Cancer Institute of India, Mumbai, underscored the absence of routine screening programs as a significant contributing factor to the dire prognosis associated with ovarian cancer. Due to the lack of early detection techniques, the disease often remains undetected until it reaches advanced stages, severely limiting treatment options.
“Timing diagnosis and treatment is often made more difficult by restricted availability of healthcare services, especially in rural areas,” Dr. Kumar added, highlighting the disparities in access to healthcare exacerbating the challenge of combating ovarian cancer.
Dr. Pritam Kataria, Consultant Medical Oncology at Sir HN Reliance Foundation Hospital, echoed the sentiment, citing the difficulty in early detection due to the nonspecific symptoms and limited screening methods available. “The majority of patients will present at a later stage,” Dr. Kataria explained, emphasizing the urgent need for more sensitive and specific screening tools.
Ageing and menopause further compound the risk of ovarian cancer, according to studies cited by Dr. Kumar. Older age at menopause, characterized by longer reproductive life, increases the exposure to reproductive hormones, consequently raising the risk of developing ovarian cancer. Genetic mutations and environmental carcinogens also contribute to the heightened risk associated with ageing.
Several risk factors, including obesity, endometriosis, and prolonged hormone replacement therapy (HRT) use, further elevate the susceptibility to ovarian cancer. Given these multifaceted risk factors, women approaching menopause are urged to remain vigilant for any symptoms indicative of ovarian cancer, such as abdominal lumps, changes in bowel habits, or postmenopausal bleeding.
“Early detection through routine screening programs is crucial for improving outcomes and reducing mortality associated with ovarian cancer,” emphasized healthcare professionals. Heightened awareness and accessible screening initiatives hold the promise of saving countless lives by enabling timely intervention and treatment for this deadly disease.
