About Ovarian Cancer

About Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent killer” because its symptoms can be subtle or mistaken for other conditions. Each year, thousands of women in Australia and around the world are diagnosed - yet many people still aren’t familiar with this disease. By learning about the signs, risk factors, and the advances in early detection and treatment, we can come together to support those impacted by ovarian cancer and foster hope for a brighter future.

Whether you’re a patient, a family member, or a friend looking for reliable information, we hope this page will help guide you through the basics of ovarian cancer, including signs and symptoms, key facts, available treatments, and answers to common questions.

Every 8 hours, one woman in Australia dies from Ovarian Cancer

Signs & Symptoms

Ovarian cancer is sometimes called the “silent killer” because its symptoms can be vague or easily mistaken for other common issues. If you or a loved one experience these symptoms for more than a few weeks, it’s important to speak with a healthcare professional. While these symptoms may not always point to ovarian cancer, paying attention to what’s normal for your body can make a significant difference.

Common Symptoms:

  • Persistent bloating

  • Abdominal or pelvic pain

  • Frequent urination

  • Feeling full quickly when eating

Other Signs:

  • Unexplained fatigue

  • Back pain

  • Changes in bowel habits

Understanding Ovarian Cancer

Incidence

In Australia, around 1,800 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer each year, making it one of the country’s most challenging women’s cancers. Although it’s less common than breast or cervical cancer, the five-year survival rate remains under 50%, highlighting the critical need for improved awareness and research.

Survival Rate

Ovarian cancer often goes undiagnosed until it has spread beyond the ovaries, contributing to a five-year survival rate of less than 50% in Australia. In contrast, some other women’s cancers, like breast cancer, can have five-year survival rates exceeding 90%. This disparity highlights the critical need for more effective early detection and treatment strategies.

Screening Tests

While breast and cervical cancers benefit from widely used screening methods such as mammograms and Pap smears, no equivalent routine screening test currently exists for ovarian cancer. Many cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage, contributing to the lower survival rate. The urgency to close this gap in screening and awareness remains a key focus of ongoing research.

Early Detection & Screening

Currently, there is no simple, routine screening test for ovarian cancer. This is why research into early detection is so vital. Our foundation is proud to support important projects at the University of South Australia (UniSA), including one focused on developing an effective early detection or screening test.

While this research is ongoing, being aware of the symptoms and advocating for your own health are critical steps in catching ovarian cancer as early as possible.

Treatment for Ovarian Cancer

The best course of treatment can vary depending on the stage of the cancer and individual patient factors. Our foundation also supports research at UniSA focused on more personalized and targeted treatments. By tailoring therapy to a patient’s specific type of ovarian cancer, we hope to improve outcomes and quality of life. If you or a loved one are coping with ovarian cancer, it’s important to discuss all options with your medical team and consider seeking a second opinion to explore every possibility.

FAQs

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer is a disease where abnormal cells in the ovaries (or fallopian tubes/peritoneum) grow uncontrollably. Early-stage ovarian cancer often has subtle symptoms, making it harder to detect.

What are common treatments?

Treatment options can include surgery, chemotherapy, and targeted therapies. Depending on your situation, your healthcare team may use one approach or a combination.

Who is at risk?

While any woman can develop ovarian cancer, certain factors such as age, family history of ovarian or breast cancer, and genetic mutations (like BRCA) can increase risk.

Where can I find support?

It’s important to talk openly with your healthcare provider about your needs. Local and national support organizations offer emotional and practical help. Connecting with others who have faced similar experiences can also be an invaluable source of comfort.

Are there any specific screening tests?

Currently, there is no routine screening test for ovarian cancer. Researchers, including those we support at UniSA, are working on developing effective early detection methods.

Disclaimer: The information on this page is intended for general awareness and education. It should not be used as a substitute for professional medical advice, diagnosis, or treatment. Always seek the guidance of a qualified healthcare provider with any questions you may have regarding a medical condition.