As part of Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, which is marked in September, Suraksha Diagnostic Limited held an informative online awareness session about ovarian cancer. Leading the discussion was Dr. Asima Mukhopadhyay, a renowned gynecological oncologist with decades of expertise in women’s cancer clinical care, research, and education. With a 90% cure rate for stage I diagnosis and a 70% 5-year survival rate for stage II, Dr. Mukhopadhyay discussed during the online event how early diagnosis enhances survival rates. On the other hand, in cases that are advanced in stage, survival falls to 20% or less. The importance of early medical action, the disease’s silent nature, and the common symptoms that are frequently disregarded were all discussed in the session.

One of the most prevalent gynecologic cancers with the greatest death rate is ovarian cancer. In India, it is the third most prevalent cancer among women. Age-adjusted incidence rates are roughly 6.8 occurrences per 100,000 women, according to data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR). With a predicted 50% increase in incidence and mortality worldwide, ovarian cancer is also becoming a global pandemic, with low and lower-middle-income settings bearing the majority of the burden. The majority of women receive their diagnoses at an advanced stage, which results in low survival rates and few available treatment options. Priority areas that require immediate action to lessen the burden and enhance results globally have been recognized by international health organizations and international cancer commissions.

These include training general practitioners and community health workers to identify early symptoms and guarantee prompt referrals, as well as quicker and more widespread access to early diagnostics like ultrasonography and CA-125 tests. Given the hereditary tendency of many diseases and the potential for prevention, expanding access to genetic testing and counseling is another crucial issue. Having access to top-notch cytoreductive surgery is crucial for improving survival rates in later stages. Since PARP inhibitors and other targeted medicines have demonstrated encouraging results in improving outcomes for particular patient groups, it is also crucial to make them accessible and reasonably priced. Access to clinical trials and survivorship programs for women is crucial for promoting long-term health and quality of life following treatment, in addition to furthering research.

While most people are aware of breast cancer, Dr. Ashima Mukhopadhay pointed out during the discussion that ovarian cancer is not as well known. She explained that the death rate from ovarian cancer is higher than the diagnosis rate. Since it is the most expensive cancer to cure, early detection is essential. Dr. Mukhopadhay emphasized that the diagnosis must be performed in a regulated, accredited laboratory. A CT scan, ultrasound, and other tests are required.

Improving the prognosis of ovarian cancer requires prompt detection and treatment. To promote women’s health throughout the area, the doctors at Suraksha Clinic and Diagnostics are committed to developing easily accessible diagnostic services and raising awareness.

Priyanka Dutta