Did you know that each year, up to 1.5 million women are diagnosed with pelvic (adnexal) masses? While most of these masses are noncancerous, a pelvic mass diagnosis can lead to a significant decision: the potential removal of one or both ovaries, known as oophorectomy, which may result in surgical menopause. A pelvic mass is a growth or enlargement originating in or around the uterus, which can involve the ovaries, fallopian tubes, and neighboring tissues (adnexal masses).
Ovarian cancer, though relatively rare, impacts about 20,000 women annually in the United States. Early identification is crucial for positive outcomes.
The decision to proceed with surgery is not one to be taken lightly, as 6 out of 7 women who undergo ovarian removal due to pelvic masses do not have cancer.
Surgical menopause, particularly before natural menopause, can lead to immediate and long-term health implications, affecting bone health, neurological conditions, mental health, and heart health.
To empower women facing these challenges, here are three proactive steps they can take:
- Assess Ovarian Cancer Risk:
- Understand personal ovarian cancer risk, considering factors like family history.
- Seek Informed Decisions:
- Request blood tests that provide valuable information for decision-making.
- Consult Healthcare Providers:
- Engage in meaningful discussions with doctors, weighing the risks and benefits of surgical approaches and exploring options to preserve ovaries.
What Women Need To Know About Ovarian Cancer -
According to The American Cancer Society, Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women and is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers. It accounts for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system. Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because symptoms may be subtle, but they can include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating, and frequent urination.
Estimates for ovarian cancer in the United States for 2023: about 19,710 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer and about 13,270 women will die from ovarian cancer.
