Ovarian cancer: 8 important things to know

Because March is National Women's Month, Pinoy MD shared a few things to know about ovarian cancer to help women become more informed about the illness.

1. At least five of 100,000 women in the Philippines die of ovarian cancer every year.

2. Ovarian cancer is the 5th leading cause of cancer deaths among women all over the world.

3. According to Dr. Jean Marquez said ovarian cancer is usually diagnosed late — and that's because ovarian cancer is asymptomatic, explains OB-Gynecologist Dr. Raul Quillamor. A woman who has it will not manifest any symptoms at first.

"Ang problema natin sa ovarian cancer ay pag na-detect na siya, medyo malaki na 'yong tumor. Kasi 'pag maliit pa lang 'yong tumor, puwedeng walang maramdaman ang isang babae," Quillamor said.

4. Symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

• abdominal swelling or bloating
• feeling like you're always full
• pain in the pelvis area
• weight loss
• constipation

5. According to Quillamor, one of the common reasons why women have ovarian cancer is due to hereditary factors passed down through family genes.

6. Abnormal mutation of cells is also another factor.

7. According to Marquez, the earlier a woman is diagnosed with ovarian cancer, the more likely she will respond to treatment.

"Cancer is not a death sentence, what's important is early detection," she said.

8. Annual pelvic examination can help in early detection of ovarian cancer.