Ovarian Colorado
Information for the Public
Frequently Asked Questions
What is ovarian cancer?
The ovary is part of the female reproductive system. Women have two ovaries, one on each side of the lower abdomen. Cancer is an abnormal growth of normal cells, which damages tissues and can spread to other organs.
How common is ovarian cancer?
Approximately 1 in 55 women will develop ovarian cancer in her lifetime.
Is ovarian cancer serious?
Yes. Ovarian cancer is diagnosed in more than 20,000 women each year, and 15,000 women die from ovarian cancer each year. In Colorado, each year 350 women are diagnosed, which is almost one every day.
Are there warning signs of ovarian cancer?
Most women with ovarian cancer will have some symptoms, but they can be very mild and they are often mistaken for something else. Symptoms can include abdominal bloating or pressure, back pain, fatigue, constipation, abdominal pain, frequent or urgent urination, unusual vaginal bleeding. These symptoms can also indicate conditions other than ovarian cancer so it is important to discuss your concerns with your health care provider.
I have a Pap test every year. Will that detect ovarian cancer?
NO! A Pap test is helpful in detecting cervical cancer, but does not detect ovarian cancer.
Does ovarian cancer run in families?
Up to 10% of ovarian cancer is due to a genetic susceptibility that can be inherited from either parent. Be sure to tell your doctor or health care professional about any cancer in your family, especially if there are multiple cases or cases that occurred in relatives who were less than 50 years of age.
Is ovarian cancer linked to other types of cancer?
Yes. If a woman or one of her close relatives has had breast cancer, colon cancer or endometrial cancer (lining of the uterus) she may be at higher risk to develop ovarian cancer.
What are some of the other risk factors for ovarian cancer?
In addition to a personal or family history of certain cancers, women who have never had children, have not breast fed or have not taken birth control pills can be at a higher risk. Although younger women can be diagnosed, getting older is a risk factor, since the average age for ovarian cancer is 60 years.
Are there factors that lower a woman’s risk?
Yes. Women who have used birth control pills for at least 5 years are at lower risk. Pregnancy and breastfeeding also lower the risk. Removal of the ovaries lessens the risk.
