A long-term patient of mine recently visited the clinic with an urgent presentation of coca-cola-coloured urine.
Ovarian cancer, the 5th most common cancer among women in Singapore, consists of malignant tumours that occur on the ovaries, nearby fallopian tubes, or even the tissue lining of the pelvis (peritoneum). It can run a subtle clinical presentation until the late stages of cancer where more overt symptoms start to manifest. Early detection of ovarian cancer through screening will reduce the chances of mortality.
Among the different types of cancers, ovarian cancer is also one of the lower survival rate forms of cancers in females, possibly due to late detection of the disease and by then, possible progression of cancer with spread to other parts of the body may have occurred. Hence, it is vital to screen for ovarian cancer during your medical checkup.
There are 3 types of ovarian cancer:
Like most cancers, the exact source of ovarian cancer is ambiguous. Risk factors aside, ovarian cancers occur when a mutation in the cell's DNA (deoxyribonucleic acid) occurs. This mutation manifests as a quick multiplication of cells that eventually form into a tumour. The cancer cells then spread to nearby organs in a process known as metastasis. In the case of ovarian cancer, apart from spreading to nearby organs, they also tend to spread to the liver and lungs in their later stages.
It is important to comprehend that in many cases, one may have virtually no symptoms at all. This is why many patients are unaware until they have reached the final stages of cancer. This can be a devastating scenario as the chances of survival become much lower. This is why routine health screening should be conducted.
However, in cases where symptoms are present, they may include:
As mentioned earlier, it is very likely you feel nothing at all in the early stages. However, as the cancer progresses, it is common for discomfort and pain to be felt in your lower extremities.
There are some factors that may increase your risk of ovarian cancer, these may include:
Sexual Health Screening
STD screening tests generally involve blood tests, swab tests and urine tests.
Dr Ben Medical offers STD screening for commonly sexually transmitting conditions such as Chlamydia, Gonorrhea, warts, herpes, HIV, Syphilis and other more – highlighted comprehensively in our packages.
We also offer long term sexual health care and services:
There is yet to be a singular, reliable test that can be utilised to detect ovarian cancer. A combination of a few screening types may be required to detect ovarian cancer. It is important that doctors are aware of abnormalities during routine check-ups to give the best chance for patients to proactively seek treatment. Likewise, it is equally important that women conduct routine screenings as changes can be easily picked up by medical professionals.
Types of screening that will aid in diagnosing ovarian cancer include:
If suspected of ovarian cancer during screening, you will be referred to a specialist (gynaecologist and oncologist) to seek further treatment. Management of ovarian cancer is usually a joint decision between a patient and the specialists. While choosing a treatment option can be daunting, your doctor will guide you further on the available options based on your type and stage/extent of cancer.
Your doctor will also explain the risks and benefits of individual treatments and their side effects. Treatment options can include surgery, chemotherapy, anti-cancer drug therapy, targeted therapy, hormonal therapy, or a combination of these therapies. You will be made aware of the necessary treatment plan to explore for recovery.
While there is no foolproof way to prevent any form of cancer, you can reduce the risk of ovarian cancer by consuming birth control pills, practising healthy lifestyle habits (not smoking and losing weight if obese), and consuming a healthy diet by actively avoiding carcinogenic foods.
Patients who have their gynaecological organs surgically removed (removal of ovaries, uteri, cervix)/or tubal ligation may also have a lower risk of ovarian cancer. It is important to understand that not all prevention measures are suitable for everyone. Discuss with your doctor if you have concerns and request a proposal for initiatives that will suit you.
There are also cases of fully healthy individuals who are diagnosed with ovarian cancer despite practising all the right measures. Cancer does not discriminate. Your best bet will always be to be on top of your screening routine and be proactive with your health.
A long-term patient of mine recently visited the clinic with an urgent presentation of coca-cola-coloured urine.
A major component of health screening involves cancer screening.
Health screening allows screening for potential health conditions
In a healthy menstrual cycle, the reproductive hormones induce the ovaries to make the egg and release it every month.
H. pylori is a spiral-shaped bacteria that is notorious for causing stomach-related issues.
Fertility Health Screening is not just about you, it’s about you and your partner’s health.
A good control of chronic diseases improves a person’s quality of life tremendously. Chronic diseases when left unattended, can lead to debilitating health conditions.
General health screening is recommended for individuals of all ages, but the frequency and type of screening may vary depending on age, gender, and medical history.