Awareness and understanding of the body can lead to early detection and potentially save lives from ovarian cancer. In March 2024, Alvina Nadeem, a 36-year-old engineer and mother, faced alarming health issues. She experienced persistent abdominal pain, fatigue, and difficulties eating. These symptoms prompted her to reflect on her health more closely.
Recognizing Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Despite her initial disbelief, Nadeem used tools like ChatGPT to track her symptoms and inquire about her health. After consulting with her doctor, tests revealed an inflamed uterus and a suspicious mass on her left ovary. Unfortunately, ovarian cancer often remains undetected until advanced stages, making awareness vital.
The Challenge of Detection
According to Dr. Korine Lapointe-Milot, a gynecologic oncologist at CIUSSS de l’Estrie-CHUS-Hôpital Fleurimont, ovarian cancer is extremely difficult to screen for. The Canadian Cancer Society predicts that by 2025, approximately 3,100 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, with 2,000 expected to die from it. In Estrie, 33 women were diagnosed with this form of cancer in 2025.
Importance of Listening to Your Body
Nadeem emphasizes that paying attention to one’s body can save lives. She advises that women should be aware of their symptoms and consult a physician if unusual signs continue. “Each symptom alone may seem insignificant, but when combined, they warrant a visit to the doctor,” she warns.
The Silent Killer
Ovarian cancer is known as the “silent killer.” Its symptoms may include appetite loss, abdominal discomfort, and rapid weight changes. According to Dr. Lapointe-Milot, the cancer develops rapidly and often has no early warning signs, leading to a high mortality rate.
Risk Factors for Ovarian Cancer
All individuals with ovaries are at risk of developing ovarian cancer, affecting approximately 1 in 75 women in Canada. Certain factors increase the risk:
- Menstruating before age 12 and experiencing menopause after age 55.
- Not having children.
- Family history of cancers.
- Genetic mutations, particularly BRCA1 and BRCA2.
These genetic mutations significantly raise the likelihood of developing breast and ovarian cancers, with estimates suggesting up to an 85% risk for breast cancer and a 25% risk for ovarian cancer.
Improving Awareness and Survival Rates
April is recognized as Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month. Unfortunately, many diagnoses occur at advanced stages, resulting in concerning survival rates—41% for stage three and 20% for stage four over five years. Nadeem, now committed to advocacy, serves on the board of Ovarian Cancer Canada to promote awareness and information. Women can visit Ovarian Cancer Canada for more resources and guidance.
Recognizing and responding to symptoms plays a crucial role in fighting ovarian cancer. Listening to your body may be the key to early detection and improved outcomes.
