What Are The 5 Warning Signs And Risk Factors Of Ovarian Cancer, As Per Oncologist

What if we tell you that you could uncover the hidden signs and risk factors that may signal the presence of ovarian cancer? From subtle symptoms to genetic predispositions, we'll delve into the essential insights you need to stay ahead of ovarian cancer shared by our expert, Dr Jeyhan B Dhabhar, cancer physician and expert at Jaslok hospital and research centre.

Dr Dhabhar said, "Ovarian cancer is often difficult to detect early because its symptoms can be vague or resemble other conditions. However, recognising the warning signs and understanding the risk factors can aid in early diagnosis, improving survival rates."

Warning Signs of Ovarian Cancer: The BEACH Mnemonic

The BEACH mnemonic that can help you remember the key symptoms of ovarian cancer goes like this:

• B: Bloating – Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling that doesn’t resolve over time.
• E: Eating difficulties – Feeling full quickly or experiencing loss of appetite without an obvious cause.
• A: Abdominal pain – Chronic or recurrent pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis.
• C: Changes in urinary habits – Frequent urination or an increased sense of urgency, even without a urinary tract infection.
• H: Hormonal changes – Irregular menstrual cycles or postmenopausal bleeding.

"If these symptoms persist for more than two weeks, it is essential to consult a healthcare professional for evaluation," said the expert.

Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer

Family History

A strong family history of ovarian, breast, or colorectal cancer increases the likelihood of developing ovarian cancer due to genetic mutations like BRCA1 and BRCA2.

Age

Women over 50 are at higher risk, with the majority of cases occurring post-menopause.

Reproductive History

Women who have never been pregnant or had their first pregnancy after age 35 are more likely to develop ovarian cancer.

Hormone Therapy

Prolonged use of hormone replacement therapy (HRT), especially estrogen-only HRT, increases risk.

Endometriosis

This condition, where uterine tissue grows outside the uterus, is linked to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

"By recognising the warning signs using the BEACH mnemonic and understanding risk factors, women can seek timely medical attention. Early detection through regular check-ups and awareness campaigns can save lives. Awareness and proactive action are vital in the fight against ovarian cancer," concluded Dr Jeyhan.

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