Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is one of the most dangerous malignant gynecologic tumors and ranks second in prevalence. It is often referred to as the “silent killer”, since in more than 70% of patients the disease is diagnosed at an advanced stage due to the absence of symptoms in its early phases.

Risk Factors

Age: The risk is significantly higher among women aged 55–65, particularly after menopause.

Family history and genetics: The risk increases in women whose close relatives (mother, sister, or daughter) have had ovarian or breast cancer.

Inherited mutations: Especially in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, as well as MMR genes (Lynch syndrome).

Reproductive history: The risk rises in women with infertility, late menopause, or few pregnancies. Conversely, multiple pregnancies, breastfeeding, and the use of oral contraceptives lower the risk.

• Other contributing factors: Endometriosis and obesity.

Warning Signs

Possible warning signs include:

• abdominal bloating or distention,
• a feeling of heaviness or fullness in the abdomen,
• constipation,
• frequent urination,
• unexplained weight loss,
• general weakness or fatigue,
• pain in the abdomen or pelvic area.

Main Histological Types

• High-grade serous carcinoma (the most common type),
• Low-grade serous carcinoma,
• Endometrioid carcinoma,
• Clear cell carcinoma,
• Mucinous carcinoma.

Treatment Approaches

Treatment depends on the stage, histological subtype, and molecular characteristics of the tumor.

The main methods include:

• Surgery: The goal is maximal cytoreduction — removal of as much tumor tissue as possible. The best outcomes are achieved when no visible residual tumor remains.

• Chemotherapy: Standard first-line treatment, typically using platinum-based regimens.

• Targeted Therapies:

1) PARP inhibitors – effective in tumors with BRCA mutations or homologous recombination deficiency (HRD).

2) Bevacizumab (anti-VEGF monoclonal antibody) – can be added at various treatment stages to delay progression.

Ovarian cancer remains a major challenge due to late diagnosis and frequent recurrences.

Women need to be aware of their family history, pay attention to persistent abdominal or pelvic symptoms, and, when necessary, undergo genetic testing for early detection and prevention.