Ovarian Cancer Can Affect Young Women Too; Doctor Reveals 5 Easily Ignored Warning Signs

Ovarian cancer, notoriously known as a "silent killer," remains a significant health concern for women in Taiwan, ranking seventh among the leading causes of cancer in the female population. While the disease most commonly affects women between the ages of 55 and 75, particularly those who have gone through menopause, it is crucial to recognize that younger women are also susceptible.

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Ovarian cancer is called a silent killer, and it ranks seventh among female cancers in Taiwan. The typical age group affected is post-menopausal women, around 55 to 75 years old.

Gynecologist Su Yi-Ning highlighted that the early symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle and non-specific. Common signs such as persistent abdominal bloating, feeling full after eating small amounts, changes in appetite, frequent urination, and dull pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis can easily be mistaken for gastrointestinal issues or menopausal symptoms. This often leads to delayed diagnosis, with many patients discovered at advanced stages (III or IV).

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However, ovarian cancer is not exclusive to older women; young women can also develop it, although the common types may differ.

While the most common type, epithelial ovarian cancer, develops deep within the pelvic cavity and may not cause pain or pressure on the digestive system in its early stages, other types, like germ cell tumors prevalent in women in their 20s, can grow rapidly and present more noticeable symptoms. The recent passing of a young former TV host from ovarian cancer has underscored the urgency of raising awareness, especially among younger demographics.

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The early symptoms of ovarian cancer are often not obvious, and warning signs like abdominal bloating, dull pain in the lower abdomen or pelvis are easily mistaken for gastrointestinal discomfort.

Su Yi-Ning recommends regular gynecological check-ups, including Pap smears, as an opportunity to also perform an ultrasound examination of the ovaries. Both abdominal and vaginal ultrasounds can aid in early detection. However, he stresses that due to the potential for false positives, any diagnosis must be made by a qualified medical professional. Maintaining annual check-ups and being vigilant about the five key warning signs are essential steps for early detection and management of ovarian cancer.

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The most convenient tool for examining the ovaries is ultrasound, which is typically divided into abdominal ultrasound and vaginal ultrasound.