After receiving the diagnosis, she began treatment that included surgery and chemotherapy. During that process, she decided to share part of her experience with the public, showing that, in addition to medical treatment, family support is essential in coping with illness.
Her open attitude also helped many women learn more about a type of cancer that often receives less attention than others, despite its impact on women’s health.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer begins when some cells in the ovaries start to grow uncontrollably. There are different types, with epithelial carcinoma being the most common in adult women.
One of the biggest challenges of this disease is that, during the early stages, it may not cause obvious symptoms or may present discomforts that are easily confused with common digestive or gynecological problems.
For this reason, many cases are detected when the disease is already at a more advanced stage, making it even more important to pay attention to persistent changes in the body.
The signs that many women often overlook
Experts agree that ovarian cancer can manifest with nonspecific symptoms, which is why some people delay seeking medical attention.
Among the signs that warrant professional evaluation if they persist for several weeks are:
– Abdominal swelling or enlargement.
– Feeling full after eating very little.
– Pelvic pain or pressure.
– Frequent lower back pain.
– Increased need to urinate.
– Persistent changes in digestion, such as constipation or gas.
– Fatigue without an apparent cause.
– Decreased appetite.
Why is it usually detected late?
Unlike other types of cancer, there is currently no routine screening test recommended for all women without risk factors.
It is also worth noting that the symptoms often resemble those of common digestive, urinary, or gynecological problems, which can delay seeking medical advice.
Experts stress the importance of knowing your own body and not normalizing persistent discomfort that appears almost every day for several weeks.
Factors that may increase the risk
Although any woman can develop ovarian cancer, some factors can increase the risk, including age (being over 50 years old) and having a family history of ovarian or breast cancer.
