Frequently Asked Questions
WHAT DO I NEED TO KNOW ABOUT OVARIAN CANCER?
- Ovarian cancer occurs in 1 in 55 women at any age.
- This year, 23,100 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer, and 14,000 women will die.
- Detected early and treated properly, more than 95% of women survive longer than 5 years.
- Pap tests DO NOT detect ovarian cancer.
WHAT ARE SYMPTOMS OF OVARIAN CANCER?
- Abdominal pressure, bloating, discomfort or pelvic pain
- Nausea, indigestion, or gas
- Urinary frequency, constipation, or diarrhea
- Abnormal bleeding
- Unusual fatigue, backaches
- Unexplained weight loss or gain
- Shortness of breath
- Menstrual disorders, pain during intercourse
*Don't panic! Many women have some of these symptoms from time to time. If the symptoms do not subside but instead, increase over time - read on!
WHAT CAN I DO?
- Have an annual vaginal/rectal pelvic exam.
- If you have symptoms that are persistent or are at high risk, ask for a transvaginal ultrasound and a CA125 blood test.
- If ovarian cancer is suspected, consult a Gynecologic Oncologist - a Specialist in treating gynecological cancers.
How can I reduce my risk?
- Oral Contraceptives
- Pregnancy and breast feeding
- Tubal ligation
- Hysterectomy
- Removal of the ovaries
What puts a woman at higher risk?
- Family or personal history of ovarian, breast or colon cancer
- Not bearing children
- Increasing age
Where can I get more information?
If I am diagnosed with ovarian cancer, what sources are available for my support?
- Ovarian Cancer National Alliance, www.ovariancancer.org or OCNA@ovariancancer.org 202-331-1332
- Conversations (An ovca Newsletter), www.ovarian-news.org 806-355-2565
- Coping Magazine 615-790-2400
- SHARE, 212-719-1204
- ACOR (Assoc of Cancer Online Resources), online support group, www.acor.org (Click on mailing list and scroll to ovca)
How do I contact a Gynecological Oncologist in Oklahoma?
Oklahoma City Gynecological Oncologist at the OU Medical Center may be reached
at 405-271-8707.
They are:
- Dr. Robert Mannel, M.D.
- Dr. Joan Walker, M.D.
- Dr. Scott McMeekin, M.D.
- Dr. Kathleen Moore, M.D.
Where are they located?
OU Physician's Building, NE 10th & Phillips,
East on Lincoln, 5th Floor
Very convenient covered parking garage.
What Is A Gynecologic Oncologist?
A Gynecologic Oncologist is an obstetrician/gynecologist who specializes in the diagnosis and treatment of women with cancer of the reproductive organs.
