Some dangers arrive with a bang. But the ovarian cancer creeps in quietly.

Its first signals often are no louder than a whisper. That’s why paying attention to early signals
matters to you.

What is ovarian cancer?

Ovarian cancer starts in the ovaries, where eggs and key hormones are produced. In Hong Kong, it is the 6th most common and the 7th deadliest cancer in women. (Hong Kong Cancer Registry).

These numbers remind us: whispers, if ignored, can grow into something louder and harder to stop.

Small clues you shouldn’t ignore

Women often dismiss the early signs as everyday discomfort. But if these persist, they’re worth your attention:

• Bloating or abdominal swelling that lingers
• Pelvic discomfort, stomach pain, or back pain 
• Feeling full faster than usual
• Change in bowel movements, such as constipation
• Needing to urinate more often

Later stages can bring fatigue, unexpected weight loss, or shortness of breath. At that point,

treatment is more complex, survival rates are lower, and the path ahead is tougher. If you are
experiencing any of these symptoms, speak to your doctor now.

How do doctors diagnose ovarian cancer?

Doctors may start with a pelvic exam, then use ultrasound or CT scans to check the ovaries more closely. Blood tests, including CA-125, can provide clues, though they aren’t conclusive. In some cases, a biopsy is needed to confirm the diagnosis. Doctors may also suggest genetic testing to see if inherited DNA changes raise risk or guide treatment. There isn’t one simple test for ovarian cancer.

Treatment: When sooner means simpler

• When caught sooner: Treatment is usually surgery to remove the ovaries and nearby
  tissues, sometimes paired with targeted therapies. In select younger women with very early-stage disease, fertility-preserving approaches may be possible. At this stage, outcomes are much stronger, with ten-year survival rates near 90% (SEER).
• When caught late: Treatment becomes more complex. Often, major surgery plus
  chemotherapy. Sadly, survival drops sharply, with only about 18% surviving ten years after diagnosis (SEER).

Outsmarting ovarian cancer

While there’s no guaranteed prevention, keeping a healthy weight, managing risk factors, and
staying alert to symptoms makes a real difference. Regular gynaecological check-ups are your best defence. Don’t brush off the whispers. If something feels off, listen, act, and see your doctor before it’s late.