What is ovarian cancer?

First, let’s cover the basics. What exactly are ovaries? They might only be the size of an almond, but they’re essential to a woman’s overall health. These feminine organs are vital players in the reproductive system, producing the eggs needed to form a fetus. Ovaries are also responsible for a female’s healthy estrogen and progesterone hormone levels, which dictate the menstruation cycle.

Ovarian cancer is a disease that affects thousands of American women every year, in which cancerous or “malignant” cells are found in or around the ovaries. Where these malignant cells are found can depend on the type and stage in which it’s diagnosed.

Ovaries are comprised of three different cell types. Each of these cells have the potential to develop into its own type of tumor. Epithelial tumors are most common, starting in the outer surface of the ovary. Germ cell tumors start developing on the cells that produce eggs. Stromal tumors are developed on the structural tissue cells that produce estrogen and progesterone.

Not all tumors are created equal, and not all are dangerous. Some of these tumors are benign, meaning non-cancerous, and will never spread. Others are malignant (cancerous) or borderline (low malignant potential), which means they have the potential to spread throughout the body.

Screening, Risks and Prevention

Women should start screening for ovarian cancer between the ages of 30 to 35, and possibly earlier if there is a family history of ovarian cancer. This screening may include a blood test for CA-125 and a pelvic ultrasound.

While advancing age puts women at a higher risk for ovarian cancer, young women should test to see their risks associated with BRCA gene mutations. Ovarian cancer, among other cancers, are linked to BRCA1 and BRCA2 changes. A number of non-invasive tests are available to find out if an individual has inherited a mutated BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene.

If you determine that you have an inherited BRCA mutation, there are a number of options that can prevent or delay ovarian cancer. These include drug therapies as well as preventive surgery.