OVARIAN CANCER EXPLAINED

THE ovaries are two small organs in the female reproductive system which contain and release an egg once a month, known as ovulation.

Cancer of the ovary can spread to other parts of the reproductive system and the surrounding areas, including the womb (uterus), vagina and abdomen.

Cancer of the ovary affects more than 315 women in Ireland each year and it is the fourth most common cancer among women here.

It is most common in women who have had the menopause — usually over the age of 55 — but it can affect women of any age.

As the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be similar to those of other conditions, it can be difficult to recognise. However, there are early symptoms to look out for, such as pain in the pelvis and lower stomach, persistent bloating and difficulty eating. The exact cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, although a number of possible factors are thought to be involved, such as the number of eggs the ovaries release, and whether someone in your family has had ovarian cancer in the past. However, only one in 10 cases of ovarian cancer has a genetic link.

Treatment usually involves a combination of surgery and chemotherapy. According to the HSE, there are methods of screening for ovarian cancer but, at the moment, they are not yet fully tested.

They are only available for women who are at high risk of developing the disease due to a strong family history or inheritance of a particular faulty gene. Clinical trials are currently assessing the effectiveness of screening in highrisk women and in the general population.

Ninety per cent of women diagnosed with early stage one ovarian cancer will be alive in five years time. ÷ FOR more, visit cancer.ie or hse.ie