User:Mr. Ibrahem/Ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a cancerous tumor in an ovary. It may originate from the ovary itself or more commonly from nearby structures such as fallopian tubes or the inner lining of the abdomen. It results in abnormal cells that have the ability to invade or spread to other parts of the body. When this process begins, there may be no or only vague symptoms. Symptoms become more noticeable as the cancer progresses. These symptoms may include abdominal distension, pelvic pain, irregular menstrual bleeding, and loss of appetite. Common areas to which the cancer may spread include the lining of the abdomen, local glands, lungs, and liver.

The risk of ovarian cancer increases in women who have ovulated more over their lifetime. This includes those who have never had children, those who began ovulation at a younger age, and those who reached menopause at an older age. Other risk factors include hormone therapy after menopause, fertility medication, smoking, and obesity. Factors that decrease risk include hormonal birth control, tubal ligation, and breast feeding. About 10% of cases are related to inherited genetic risk; women with mutations in the genes BRCA1 or BRCA2 have about a 40% chance of developing the disease by age 70-years. There are several types of ovarian carcer, of which high-grade serous carcinoma (HGSC) accounts for around 70%. Originally thought to arise from the squamous epithelial cells covering the ovary, it is now established that most HGSCs are from a precursor lesion called serous tubal intraepithelial carcinoma, found in the fallopian tube. Less common types of ovarian cancer include germ cell tumors and sex cord stromal tumors. Diagnosis of ovarian cancer is confirmed through a biopsy of tissue, usually removed during surgery.

Screening is not recommended in women who are at average risk, as evidence does not support a reduction in death and the high rate of false positive tests may lead to unneeded surgery. Those at very high risk may have their ovaries removed as prevention. If caught and treated in an early stage, ovarian cancer is often curable. Treatment usually includes some combination of surgery, radiation therapy, and chemotherapy. Outcomes depend on the extent of disease, the subtype of cancer, and other medical conditions. The overall five-year survival rate in the United States is 49%. Outcomes are worse in the developing world.

In 2015 it was present in 1.2 million women and resulted in 161,100 deaths worldwide. In 2020, it was the eighth-most common cancer diagnosis and cause of death from cancer, in women, and new cases occurred in approximately 313,000 women. The typical age of diagnosis is 60-to-65 years old. Death from ovarian cancer is more common in North America and Europe than in Africa and Asia.