Although some advances have been made in the treatment of ovarian cancer and survival rates, one thing has not changed, and that is how difficult it is to diagnose ovarian cancer in the earliest stage. This is because the early stage of ovarian cancer causes vague signs and symptoms that can be attributed to many other common and much less serious illnesses. Early symptoms may include:

• Abdominal bloating, pressure or fullness

• Pelvic pain

• Urinary urgency

• Gas, nausea or indigestion which is persistent

• Changes in bladder or bowel habits

• Weight gain centered around abdomen

• Fatigue

• Low back pain

• Loss of appetite/feeling full easily

• Menstrual changes

Because these symptoms are non-specific, it is recommended that women consult their doctor if symptoms last more that a couple of weeks. It is not necessary to have all of the above symptoms in order to have ovarian cancer.

Risk factors for the development of ovarian cancer include:

• Inherited gene mutations (BRCA gene mutation)

• Age (most often develops after menopause)

• Infertility

• HRT (hormone replacement therapy)

• Male hormones (sometimes used to treat endometriosis)

• Obesity

• Childbearing status (women who have never given birth are at higher risk)

• Family history

• History of breast cancer

It is estimated that there will be approximately 21, 500 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in the United States in 2009; of this total, 14, 600 will die.

Related Links:

• Christina Applegate Contends with the BRCA1 Gene from Health Guru

• Ovarian cancer from the Mayo Clinic

• Ovarian Cancer Home Page from the National Cancer Institute