Ovarian cancer is the growth of abnormal cells in the ovaries. The
cause of ovarian cancer is not known, but the risk of developing ovarian cancer
is increased for women who are past menopause, women who have a close family
relative with the disease, women who have had breast cancer, and white women
(who have a higher risk than black women).
Early ovarian cancer frequently does not cause symptoms. If
symptoms are present, they may be vague, such as weight gain, increased
abdominal girth, gas, and bloating. Symptoms of advanced ovarian cancer include
persistent abdominal pain, pelvic pressure, and bloating.
Ovarian cancer is treated with surgery, chemotherapy, and sometimes
radiation therapy.
Women who have used birth control pills containing a combination
of estrogen and progestin for at least 5 years, or have had at least one child,
or have breast-fed a child have lower rates of ovarian cancer. Also, a woman
may be less likely to develop ovarian cancer if she has had a tubal ligation or
hysterectomy, or if she has eaten a diet that includes lots of fruits and
vegetables.
