Ovarian Cancer
Last Updated: July 3, 2026
Key Points
- Affects ovaries, fallopian tubes, or peritoneum
- Mostly affects women over 50
- Can affect anyone with ovaries
- Symptoms like bloating not always obvious
- Often diagnosed late
- Early diagnosis improves treatability
- Can occur even after ovary removal
- Sometimes runs in families
Overview
Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that starts in the ovaries, which are two small organs that store eggs and produce female hormones. It can also affect the fallopian tubes or the lining inside your tummy, called the peritoneum. This condition primarily affects women over the age of 50, but it can occur in anyone who has ovaries. Even if you've had your ovaries removed, you can still develop ovarian cancer in the fallopian tubes or peritoneum. Cancers of the ovary, fallopian tubes, and peritoneum are often grouped together because they are similar and treated in the same way. Symptoms are not always obvious, leading to late diagnosis, but finding it early significantly improves treatment success.
Signs and Symptoms
- Bloating
- Abdominal pain or discomfort
- Feeling full quickly
- Changes in bowel habits
- Frequent urination
Things That Increase the Risk
- Over 50 years old
- Family history of ovarian cancer
- Endometriosis
- Never having been pregnant
Diagnosis
- Pelvic exam
- Blood tests (e.g., CA-125)
- Imaging scans (ultrasound, CT, MRI)
- Biopsy
Treatment & Management
- Surgery
- Chemotherapy
- Targeted therapy
- Radiation therapy
Prevention
- Regular medical check-ups
- Awareness of symptoms
- Genetic counseling for family history
- Prompt reporting of new symptoms
Available Treatments
Explore our range of treatment options for Ovarian Cancer:
Surgical Options
Learn about surgical procedures available for Ovarian Cancer:
Contents
Quick Info
Affects
Ovaries, fallopian tubes, peritoneum
Prevalence
Mostly women over 50
Diagnosis
Symptom check, imaging, biopsy
Treatment
Surgery, chemotherapy
Medically Reviewed
Dr. Vijay Bhat
Orthopedic Surgeon · Apollo Hospitals, Chennai
Reviewed on July 3, 2026
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