Annually, over 250,000 women in the world receive a diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and 140,000 deaths result from the disease. Women in New York should take care to avoid mistaking the early indications of ovarian cancer for less serious medical issues. Doing so can lower the chances that treatment will be successful.
It is very important that women do not ignore the symptoms of ovarian cancer. If they are experiencing stomach pains, weight gain, shortness of breath, an increase in indigestion, urination, or nausea, bloating and back pain that last for over a week, it is important that they speak with their physician and have their ovaries examined. Women should also be aware that Pap smears are not helpful when it comes to ovarian cancer. While the test can be used to detect cervical cancer, it cannot be used as a diagnostic tool for ovarian cancer.
Ovarian cancer will develop in one in every 75 women. However, all women carry a risk of developing the disease. They will have an even higher chance of developing ovarian cancer if they have previously had breast cancer or some other type of cancer in the past or is closely related someone who has had ovarian cancer.
Women who possess one or more of certain types of genes will also have a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer. They can consult with a genetic counselor to determine if they carry any of the more than 100 genes that are associated with an increased risk of the cancer. A failure to diagnose this form of cancer in a timely manner could lead to a worsened condition. Patients or their family members who have been harmed in such a manner might want to meet with a medical malpractice attorney and discuss their options.
