Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Know the Risks, Recognize the Signs

September marks Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a national observance led by the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC) and other advocacy groups to raise awareness, promote early detection, and support those affected by this often-silent disease. While ovarian cancer accounts for only about 2.5% of all female cancers, it remains the deadliest gynecologic cancer in the United States due to its tendency to go undetected until advanced stages.

According to the American Cancer Society, approximately 20,890 new cases of ovarian cancer are projected in the U.S. in 2025, with an estimated 12,730 deaths. These sobering numbers reflect the urgent need for education and action.

What makes ovarian cancer particularly dangerous is the lack of early symptoms, or the fact that those symptoms are often mistaken for more benign issues. As a result, many women are diagnosed late, when the disease is more challenging to treat. Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to change that through education, advocacy, and support for ongoing research and improved diagnostics.

What Is Ovarian Cancer and the Various Types

Ovarian cancer refers to malignancies that begin in the ovaries, fallopian tubes, or the peritoneum, the tissue lining the abdominal cavity. Though commonly associated only with the ovaries, research increasingly shows that some ovarian cancers may originate in the fallopian tubes before spreading to the ovaries and surrounding tissues.

Main Types of Ovarian Cancer

There are three primary types of ovarian cancer, classified based on the type of cell where the tumor begins:

• Epithelial tumors: These develop in the thin layer of tissue covering the ovaries and account for about 90% of all ovarian cancers. Unfortunately, epithelial ovarian cancers are often detected at an advanced stage due to subtle or non-specific early symptoms.
• Germ cell tumors: These originate in the egg-producing cells of the ovaries. They are rare and usually occur in younger women. Most germ cell tumors are treatable, even when diagnosed at a later stage.
• Stromal tumors: These arise in the connective tissue cells that hold the ovary together and produce hormones. Stromal tumors are also rare and tend to be diagnosed at earlier stages.

Learn more about ovarian cancer types and subtypes from the American Cancer Society.

Stages of Ovarian Cancer and Why They Matter

Ovarian cancer is staged from Stage I (localized) to Stage IV (metastasized). Early-stage ovarian cancer (Stage I or II) typically has a much better prognosis and is more responsive to treatment. However, nearly 70% of women are diagnosed at Stage III or IV, when the disease has spread beyond the ovaries. 

Staging affects both the treatment plan and the long-term outlook. That’s why early detection and broader awareness of risk factors and symptoms are so critical.

Who Is at Risk? Understanding the Contributing Factors

Ovarian cancer can affect anyone with ovaries, but specific individuals face a higher risk based on a combination of non-modifiable and modifiable factors.

Non-Modifiable Risk Factors

These are factors beyond a person’s control but essential to understand for early screening and prevention:

• Age: Most ovarian cancers occur after menopause, with the majority of cases diagnosed in women over 60.
• Family History: Having a first-degree relative (mother, sister, or daughter) with ovarian or breast cancer increases risk significantly.
• Inherited Genetic Mutations: Mutations in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, as well as conditions like Lynch syndrome, are strongly associated with ovarian and other types of cancer.
• Personal History: Those who have had breast, uterine, or colorectal cancer may also face a higher risk of ovarian cancer.

Modifiable Risk Factors

While some lifestyle-related risks are still being researched, the following may influence a person’s likelihood of developing ovarian cancer:

• Reproductive History: Women who have never been pregnant or who had their first child later in life, may have an increased risk.
• Hormone Therapy: Long-term use of estrogen hormone replacement therapy, especially without progesterone, may contribute.
• Obesity: A higher body mass index (BMI) has been linked to an increased risk, likely due to hormonal and metabolic changes.
• Endometriosis: This condition, which involves the growth of uterine lining tissue outside the uterus, has been associated with certain types of ovarian cancer.

Recognizing these risk factors enables more informed conversations between patients and healthcare providers, especially for those with a family history or genetic predisposition.

Recognizing the Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer

Ovarian cancer is often referred to as a “silent killer” because its symptoms are subtle, vague, and easily mistaken for less serious conditions. However, persistent symptoms, especially when unusual for your body, should never be ignored.

Common Warning Signs

• Persistent bloating or abdominal swelling
• Pelvic or lower abdominal pain
• Feeling full quickly or having difficulty eating
• Frequent urination or an urgent need to urinate
• Changes in bowel habits, such as constipation
• Fatigue, back pain, or unexplained weight loss

While these symptoms can overlap with other gastrointestinal or hormonal conditions, what sets ovarian cancer apart is its persistence and worsening over time. If any of these signs continue for more than two weeks, especially if they are new or unusual, consult a healthcare provider immediately.

Timely recognition of symptoms can significantly impact survival rates. Studies show that women who are diagnosed at early stages (I or II) have a 5-year survival rate of over 90%, compared to about 30% when diagnosed at later stages.

Ovarian Cancer Statistics & Survival Rates

Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal gynecologic cancers in the United States, with thousands of new diagnoses and deaths each year.

According to projections by the American Cancer Society, approximately 20,890 women will be newly diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2025, and an estimated 12,730 will die from the disease. These figures underscore the urgent need for improved awareness, early detection, and ongoing research.

Survival Rates by Stage

The stage at which ovarian cancer is diagnosed significantly influences survival. When detected early (stage I), the 5-year survival rate exceeds 90%. However, only about 20% of cases are caught at this stage. Most women are diagnosed at stage III or IV, when the cancer has already spread, and the 5-year survival rate drops to ~30%. These statistics underscore the importance of promptly recognizing symptoms and implementing risk-based screening for individuals at high risk.

Screening, Testing & Early Detection Challenges

Unlike breast or cervical cancer, there is no standardized, practical screening test for ovarian cancer in the general population. This presents a significant barrier to early diagnosis.

Screening and Diagnostic Tools

While screening isn’t routine for most women, several tools may be used in patients with symptoms or those at high risk:

• Pelvic Exam: Can detect irregularities in the uterus or ovaries, but may miss smaller tumors.
• Transvaginal Ultrasound (TVUS): This imaging technique provides detailed views of the ovaries and uterus, enabling the detection of masses or abnormalities.
• CA-125 Blood Test: This test measures a protein that may be elevated in ovarian cancer; however, levels can also rise due to other conditions, which limits its reliability as a standalone screening tool.
• MRI or CT Scans: May be used to assess the spread or characteristics of a suspected tumor, especially during staging.
• Genetic Testing and Counseling: Strongly recommended for women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer. Testing for BRCA1, BRCA2, and Lynch syndrome mutations can guide preventive strategies and treatment options.

Why Screening Remains a Challenge

The subtle nature of ovarian cancer symptoms and the lack of a sensitive, specific test make early detection difficult. Efforts are ongoing to develop more effective biomarkers and imaging methods that can aid in population-wide screening or more targeted surveillance.

Prevention & Risk Reduction Strategies

While ovarian cancer cannot always be prevented, several evidence-based strategies can help reduce risk, especially for those with known genetic predispositions.

Lifestyle and Reproductive Factors

• Birth Control Pills: Long-term use of oral contraceptives has been shown to reduce ovarian cancer risk by up to 50% in some studies.
• Pregnancy and Breastfeeding: Having one or more full-term pregnancies and breastfeeding may provide some protective benefits.
• Healthy Weight and Diet: Maintaining a healthy weight and incorporating a diet rich in fruits, vegetables, and whole grains may contribute to overall hormone regulation and lower inflammation.

Risk-Reducing Medical Interventions

• Prophylactic Surgery: Women with high-risk genetic mutations may consider prophylactic oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries) or salpingo-oophorectomy (removal of the ovaries and fallopian tubes) to significantly reduce their risk.
• Tubal Ligation: This procedure may also offer some protective benefits.
• Hormone Use Caution: Avoiding long-term unopposed estrogen therapy may help lower risk.

Know Your Family History

Open conversations with your healthcare provider about family history of breast, ovarian, or related cancers can lead to earlier detection and more personalized care. For high-risk individuals, genetic counseling offers a proactive path to understanding personal risk and making informed health decisions.

Support Resources for Patients and Families

A diagnosis of ovarian cancer impacts far more than just the physical body; it also takes an emotional, financial, and mental toll. Fortunately, many organizations provide targeted support, education, and advocacy.

National and Local Support Options:

• National Ovarian Cancer Coalition (NOCC): Offers patient toolkits, peer support, and nationwide events focused on raising awareness and empowering individuals.
• Ovarian Cancer Research Alliance (OCRA): Provides funding for research, clinical trials, and personalized guidance through patient support programs.
• CancerCare®: Offers free professional counseling, financial assistance, and education workshops for patients and caregivers.
• Caring House: A comforting source of information and stories for patients navigating advanced cancer diagnoses.

These resources not only offer education and guidance but also help patients feel less alone during a difficult time.

Advances in Ovarian Cancer Research and Hope for the Future

While ovarian cancer remains one of the deadliest gynecologic cancers, advances in detection and treatment are offering new hope.

Emerging Diagnostic Tools

Researchers are actively working to identify new biomarkers and liquid biopsy techniques that could allow for earlier detection, particularly in women without symptoms. Machine learning and AI are also being explored to improve the accuracy of imaging interpretations and risk modeling.

Innovative Therapies

New treatment modalities, such as PARP inhibitors, have extended survival for patients with BRCA mutations. Immunotherapies, targeted drugs, and personalized treatment plans based on genetic profiling are transforming the way ovarian cancer is managed.

The Power of Awareness

Awareness efforts are fueling increased funding, earlier diagnoses, and patient advocacy. As more women and providers recognize the signs and understand the risks, survival rates can continue to improve. Clinical trials continue to offer hope, particularly for women with advanced or recurrent disease.

Greater Awareness Starts with Education

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is an opportunity to shine a light on a disease that is often overlooked. Knowing the symptoms, understanding your risk, and advocating for comprehensive care can make a critical difference. While early detection remains a challenge, education and support can empower individuals and families to take action sooner and with greater confidence.

Help spread awareness this September by learning more, sharing information, and supporting ongoing research. Early knowledge saves lives.

Greater Waterbury Imaging Center provides high-quality MRI services, prioritizing patient comfort, advanced imaging technology, and delivering prompt and accurate results. We work closely with referring physicians to support precise diagnoses and confident care planning. Contact us to discover our comprehensive range of MR imaging services.