Things You Should Know...

From MSN.COM

The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be about 22,220 new cases of ovarian cancer in the United States in 2005. It ranks fourth as the cause of cancer death in women. About 16,210 women will die of the disease this year.

Causes...

The exact causes of ovarian cancer are not known. However, studies show that certain factors may increase the chance of developing the disease:

Family history. A mother, daughter or sister of a woman who has had ovarian cancer is at increased risk of developing the cancer themselves. The risk is somewhat less, but still above average, if other relatives have had ovarian cancer. A family history of breast or colon cancer is also tied to an increased risk of ovarian cancer.

Age. Most ovarian cancers occur in women over the age of 50, with the highest risk in women over 60.

Childbearing. Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer than women who have had children.

Personal history. Women who have had breast or colon cancer may have an increased risk for developing ovarian cancer.

Hormone replacement therapy. Some evidence suggests that women who use HRT after menopause may have a slightly increased risk of developing ovarian cancer.

Symptoms...

Ovarian cancer often shows no obvious signs or symptoms until late in its development. Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

General abdominal discomfort and/or pain (gas, indigestion, pressure, swelling, bloating, cramps)

Nausea, diarrhea, constipation, or frequent urination

Loss of appetite

Feeling of fullness even after a light meal

Weight gain or loss with no known reason

Abnormal bleeding from the vagina
These symptoms may also be caused by other, less serious conditions. It is important to discuss them with a doctor.

Survival Chances...

The chances of survival from ovarian cancer are better if the cancer is found early. If the cancer is found and treated before it has spread outside the ovary, 95 percent of women will survive at least five years. However, only 25 percent of ovarian cancers are found at this early stage. About 78 percent of all women with ovarian cancer survive at least one year after the cancer is found, and over half survive longer than five years.

Where can you find more information?

American Cancer Society
National Cancer Institute
Ovarian Cancer National Alliance
National Ovarian Cancer Coalition