Ovarian Cancer: 
Ovarian cancer causes more deaths than any other gynecologic cancer because it is frequently diagnosed at an advanced stage. Yet, when discovered in its early stages, it is highly curable. This cancer starts in the ovaries, which are located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus, or womb. Ovaries make female hormones and produce eggs. Ovarian cancer often creates signs and symptoms that can be ignored, so it is important to pay attention to your body. These symptoms are not always caused by cancer, but you should visit your doctor, nurse or other health care professional to rule it out. Common symptoms that can be related to ovarian cancer are: pelvic or abdominal or back pain, bloating, urinary irregularity and feeling full too quickly when eating.

Risk factors for ovarian cancer include:

• Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
• Previous diagnosis of breast, uterine or colorectal cancer
• Middle-aged or older 
• Eastern European Jewish (Ashkenazi) descent
• Previous trouble getting pregnant or never given birth 
• Endometriosis (a condition where tissue from the lining of the uterus grows elsewhere in the body)

Ways to reduce risk of Ovarian Cancer: