Free cancer support
Ovarian cancer
Ovarian cancer is one of the more insidious and dangerous malignancies of the female reproductive system. Early-stage disease often presents with no obvious symptoms, leading many patients to be diagnosed at mid-to-late stages. Its development is closely associated with multiple factors:
Genetic Factors: Mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, as well as a family history of ovarian cancer, significantly increase risk.
Age Factors: More common in postmenopausal women, though younger women can also develop the disease.
Reproductive and Hormonal Factors: Early menarche, late menopause, infertility, nulliparity, or long-term estrogen exposure can elevate risk.
Other Medical History: Patients with ovarian cysts or endometriosis are at relatively higher risk.
Early screening and ongoing supportive care are crucial for improving quality of life and health management, particularly for women at high risk, who should undergo regular monitoring.
Early-stage ovarian cancer often presents with nonspecific symptoms that are easily overlooked. As the disease progresses, patients may experience:
Abdominal bloating or lower abdominal swelling: Often misinterpreted as indigestion or weight gain in early stages.
Lower abdominal or pelvic discomfort: Includes dull pain, pressure, or a sense of heaviness.
Changes in urination or bowel habits: Frequent urination, constipation, or difficulty passing stool due to tumor compression.
Weight loss or decreased appetite: Suggests disease progression or chronic consumption.
Late-stage symptoms: Ascites, shortness of breath, back pain, fatigue, possibly indicating tumor metastasis or extensive infiltration.
Additionally, some patients may experience chronic fatigue, lower back soreness, or leg swelling, requiring comprehensive evaluation.
The diagnosis of ovarian cancer relies on multiple methods, aiming to improve early detection and achieve precise subtyping:
Imaging Studies
Pelvic Ultrasound: Evaluates ovarian size, cystic or solid masses, and blood flow signals.
CT or MRI: Assesses abdominal, pelvic, and distant metastasis.
Tumor Marker Tests
CA-125, HE4, etc.: Serve as auxiliary diagnostic tools and for postoperative monitoring.
Pathology Examination
Ovarian Biopsy or Surgical Specimen Analysis: Confirms tumor type and degree of differentiation.
Molecular and Genetic Testing
BRCA1/2, TP53, etc.: Helps guide personalized care plans and assess familial risk.
Care and support strategies for ovarian cancer can be divided into traditional methods and personalized support strategies, aiming to maintain quality of life, support bodily functions, and enhance immunity and overall health.
Surgery
Applicable for early-stage or localized tumors, involving removal of the ovary and uterine adnexa, with lymph node dissection if necessary.
Postoperative care including nutritional support, physical rehabilitation, and psychological counseling can promote recovery and restore daily functioning.
Chemotherapy or Radiation Support
Suitable for mid-to-late stage or high-risk recurrent patients to control tumor growth and reduce recurrence risk.
Combined with nursing plans to minimize side effects and maintain bodily function.
Personalized Support Strategies
Care plans tailored according to molecular testing and pathological subtypes, such as specific monitoring and lifestyle management for BRCA mutation carriers.
Combined with immune-enhancing therapy and nutritional support to strengthen bodily resistance and overall health.
Nutrition and Supportive Therapies
High-dose vitamin C, glutathione, amino acids, and trace element infusions can improve energy levels, maintain immune function, and support recovery.
Dietary advice: balanced intake of protein, fruits, vegetables, and whole grains, while limiting high-fat and processed foods.
Personalized Monitoring and Care
Regular imaging, blood tests, and tumor marker monitoring to track disease progression.
Develop individualized care plans, adjusting nutrition, lifestyle, and psychological support.
For patients with chronic inflammation, metabolic disorders, or weakened immunity, provide specialized care plans to improve long-term quality of life.
