Chennai: Though ovarian cancer is a disease that has been long dreaded, doctors in the state give hope to women stating that it can be prevented through early detection.
According to a recent survey (of 521 samples) conducted in the city by Metropolis Healthcare, 27.9 per cent women in the pre-menopause and 40 per cent women in the post-menopause were tested positive for high levels.
The disease is known to account for about three per cent of cancers among women. “We are constantly advising women to go for yearly mammography and pap smear, as ‘prevention is better than cure’,” said Dr. Anita Suryanarayanan, Vice President, Lister Metropolis.
The disease, also known as a 'silent killer', causes more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. “This form of cancer spreads rapidly and it is essential that women get themselves checked on a yearly basis. Gynaecologists can identify the disease easily, therefore, a visit to a gyanaecologist could benefit the woman," she said.
Of the many cancers known, the disease is a cancerous growth arising from the ovary. Symptoms are frequently very subtle early on and may include bloating, pelvic pain, difficulty eating and frequent urination, which are easily confused with other illnesses.
“There is no available screening for early detection of ovarian cancer. However, there are tests available for high risk women and those who display symptoms,” said Dr. Partha, a Medical Oncologist.
“The need to constantly urge women in Tamil Nadu and India in general to go for regular check up is more as they tend to focus more on their family's health rather than their own," said a health official. It is one of the main reasons why the disease has been rising in the country, she added.
