Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Know the Signs; Understand the Risks, Act Early

Ovarian cancer is one of the most difficult types of gynaecological cancers as its symptoms may be hard to identify and may mimic typical digestive system issues or bladder infections. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026 is a great opportunity to educate people on symptoms and risk factors of ovarian cancer.

Awareness of your body and changes in it may be helpful for seeking medical advice earlier.

What Is Ovarian Cancer?

It is the uncontrolled growth of abnormal cells within or near the ovaries that results in ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer can affect other organs such as the fallopian tubes and abdominal lining in which case the cancers can be managed in a similar way depending on their nature.

Ovaries are part of the female reproductive system whose main function is to produce eggs and hormones. Even though ovarian cancer can be diagnosed among women of various ages, it is common among women who have already undergone menopause.

Why Is Ovarian Cancer Difficult to Detect Early?

One of the biggest problems with ovarian cancer is that there are often no symptoms in the early stages of the disease. In some cases, when symptoms do arise, they can be misinterpreted as ordinary problems with either the gastrointestinal tract or urinary system.

At present, there are no accepted recommendations regarding any screening for ovarian cancer in women at average risk and who are asymptomatic. Procedures such as the transvaginal ultrasound scan and CA-125 blood test are valuable in certain clinical scenarios, but are unreliable as screening tools for average-risk women.

This emphasizes the importance of being aware of the symptoms.

Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

The signs of ovarian cancer can often go unnoticed, especially if they occur on a rare occasion. Nevertheless, they cannot be taken lightly.

They include:

1. Bloating or distension
2. Pain in the pelvis or lower abdomen
3. Saturation after meals
4. Loss of appetite
5. Having to urinate frequently or urgently
6. Unusual changes in bowels habits
7. Digestive disorders such as constipation
8. Unexpected weight loss or gain
9. Feeling of fullness in the abdomen or pelvis

There are many causes for these symptoms which are unrelated to cancer. If the above symptoms persist, become frequent, or are out of your norm, visit a specialist.

Who May Be at Higher Risk of Ovarian Cancer?

Having a risk factor does not mean that a woman will develop ovarian cancer. However, knowing your individual risk can help you and your doctor make informed decisions.

Some factors associated with increased ovarian cancer risk include:

Family History

Having a close family member with ovarian cancer or certain other cancers may increase the risk. A strong family history should be discussed with a healthcare professional.

Inherited Gene Changes

Inherited changes in genes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase the risk of ovarian cancer. Lynch syndrome is another inherited condition associated with increased risk. Genetic counselling and testing may be considered for women with relevant personal or family histories.

Age

The risk of ovarian cancer generally increases with age, and the disease is more commonly diagnosed after menopause.

Endometriosis

Endometriosis has been associated with an increased risk of certain types of ovarian cancer.

Other factors, including reproductive history, certain hormone therapies, excess body weight and other individual health factors, may also influence risk. Your doctor can help assess your overall risk rather than focusing on a single factor.

How Is Ovarian Cancer Diagnosed?

If ovarian cancer is suspected, the doctor may begin with a detailed medical and family history and a physical or pelvic examination.

Depending on the symptoms and clinical findings, further investigations may include:

1. Imaging tests such as ultrasound, CT or MRI
2. Blood tests, including tumour markers when appropriate
3. Genetic counselling and genetic testing for selected patients
4. Biopsy or surgery to examine tissue and confirm the diagnosis

The exact tests required depend on the individual patient's symptoms and clinical situation.

Ovarian Cancer Treatment

The treatment for ovarian cancer depends upon a number of factors, including the type and staging of the disease along with the general health of the patient and particular aspects of the tumour.

The following treatments are included in the treatment of ovarian cancer:

1. Surgery for the removal of cancerous tissue or other reproductive tissues where needed
2. Chemotherapy for killing or managing the cancer cells
3. Targeted therapy for treating cancers that have particular molecular characteristics
4. Hormonal therapy for a few cases of ovarian cancer
5. Many other advanced forms of treatment based on the patient’s situation

The treatment of the patient can be managed by a multidisciplinary team of cancer-care professionals.

Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer. However, understanding personal risk factors and discussing them with a healthcare professional can be important, particularly for women with a strong family history or inherited genetic risk.

For women with certain high-risk genetic conditions, doctors may discuss risk-reducing strategies, including preventive surgery in appropriate cases. Such decisions require individual assessment and specialist counselling.

Healthy lifestyle choices, regular healthcare consultations and awareness of changes in your body can also contribute to better overall health.

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026: Listen to Your Body

Ovarian cancer does not always announce itself with a clear warning. Sometimes, the signs may seem ordinary—a bloated abdomen, persistent pelvic discomfort, changes in appetite or frequent urination.

But when a symptom is persistent, unusual or keeps returning, it deserves attention.

This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month 2026, take a moment to understand your risk, know the symptoms and encourage the women around you to prioritise their health. Early attention to concerning symptoms can help doctors investigate the cause and, when cancer is present, support timely diagnosis and treatment.

Contact B. P. Poddar Cancer Hospital for you and your loved ones.