Ovarian cancer is a cancer that starts in the ovaries, which are reproductive organs located in the female pelvis. The ovaries produce eggs and the female hormones estrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer is often called the "silent killer" because it often does not cause noticeable symptoms until it has reached an advanced stage. When ovarian cancer is detected and treated early, the chances of survival are much higher.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
There are several types of ovarian cancer, including epithelial ovarian cancer, germ cell ovarian cancer, and stromal ovarian cancer. Epithelial ovarian cancer is the most common type, and it starts in the cells that cover the surface of the ovaries. Germ cell ovarian cancer starts in the cells that produce eggs, and stromal ovarian cancer starts in the cells that produce hormones.
Risk factors for ovarian cancer, including:
Age: Ovarian cancer is more common in older women, with the majority of cases occurring in women over age 60.
Family history: Having a family history of ovarian cancer may increase your risk. If you have a mother, sister, or daughter who has had ovarian cancer, your risk may be higher.
Personal history: A personal history of certain conditions, such as breast cancer or endometrial cancer (cancer of the lining of the uterus), may increase your risk of ovarian cancer.
Other risk factors: Other factors that may increase your risk of ovarian cancer include having had multiple pregnancies, having never been pregnant, using hormonal contraception for a long time, and having a weakened immune system.
how to detect ovarian cancer?
There are several screenings and tests that can help detect ovarian cancer early, when it is most treatable. These include pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasound, and the CA-125 blood test. It is important for women to talk to their healthcare provider about their risk for ovarian cancer and the recommended screenings and tests.
Cervical cancer is a cancer that starts in the cervix, which is the lower part of the uterus (womb) that opens into the vagina. The cervix is a narrow passage that connects the uterus to the vagina. Cervical cancer is usually caused by a virus called human papillomavirus (HPV). HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual contact, and almost all cervical cancers are caused by HPV infection.
Types of cervical cancer
Types including squamous cell carcinoma and adenocarcinoma. Squamous cell carcinoma is the most common type and it starts in the thin, flat cells that line the cervix. Adenocarcinoma starts in the cells that produce mucus.
Risk factors for cervical cancer
HPV infection: HPV infection is the main cause of cervical cancer. HPV is a common virus that is spread through sexual contact. Most people who have had sexual contact will get HPV at some point in their lives.
Age: Cervical cancer is more common in women over age 30. Regular screenings are important for early detection and successful treatment.
Other risk factors: Other factors that may increase your risk of cervical cancer include having multiple sexual partners, smoking, having a weakened immune system, and using hormonal contraception for a long time.
how to detect cervical cancer?
There are several screenings and tests that can help detect cervical cancer early, when it is most treatable. These include the Pap test (also called a Pap smear) and the HPV test. The Pap test looks for changes in the cells of the cervix that could turn into cancer. The HPV test looks for the virus that can cause these cell changes. It is important for women to talk to their healthcare provider