Every 8th of May, the world pauses for World Ovarian Cancer Day, a time to reflect and raise awareness about a disease that claims the lives of nearly 185,000 women globally each year, a vital opportunity to shine a light on one of the most overlooked yet deadly gynaecological cancers affecting women globally. While it may not always make the headlines, ovarian cancer deserves our collective attention, especially in a country like Nigeria, where late diagnosis remains a silent killer.
Today, at MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we stand with every woman, like Titi, a 42-year-old mother of two who walked into our centre with nothing but a persistent bloating and a gut feeling that something wasn’t right. Her early screening changed everything. Her story, like many others, reminds us why we do what we do every day, for every family, every health worker, and every woman whose life could be transformed through timely diagnosis. Every family and every health worker is fighting to change the story. In this article, we’ll walk you through what ovarian cancer is, the different types, warning signs to look out for, how to prevent it, and most importantly, how early diagnosis can make all the difference.
What is Ovarian Cancer?
Think of the ovaries like the control centres of a woman’s reproductive system, small, powerful, and vital. Now imagine a tiny error in their function growing quietly, much like a weed creeping through a garden, slowly disrupting everything around it. That’s how ovarian cancer often begins.
Ovarian cancer begins in the ovaries, the small, almond-shaped organs in the female reproductive system responsible for producing eggs and essential hormones. When cells in the ovaries begin to grow abnormally and uncontrollably, they form a tumour that can spread to nearby tissues or organs.
What makes ovarian cancer particularly dangerous is that it often develops without early symptoms or presents symptoms that are mistaken for other common conditions like indigestion or bloating.
Types of Ovarian Cancer You Should Know
Understanding the type of ovarian cancer can help determine the best course of treatment. The three main types include:
- Germ Cell Tumours: These begin in the cells that produce eggs. They mostly affect younger women and have a higher survival rate if caught early.
- Stromal Tumours: These rare cancers originate in the tissue responsible for hormone production.
- Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: The most common, accounting for over 85% of cases. It starts in the outer layer of the ovary.
Understanding the type of ovarian cancer can help determine the best course of treatment. The three main types include: - Epithelial Ovarian Cancer: The most common, accounting for over 85% of cases. It starts in the outer layer of the ovary.
- Germ Cell Tumours: These begin in the cells that produce eggs. They mostly affect younger women and have a higher survival rate if caught early.
- Stromal Tumours: These rare cancers originate in the tissue responsible for hormone production.
Common Symptoms (That Should Never Be Ignored)
Unlike some cancers, ovarian cancer doesn’t always scream for attention. But subtle signs, especially when persistent, may be early whispers of a bigger problem.
Watch out for these common signs and what they may indicate:
- Persistent abdominal bloating or swelling: This could result from fluid build-up caused by tumours pressing on abdominal structures.
- Pelvic or lower abdominal pain: Often caused by the tumour irritating nearby tissues or growing within the ovary.
- Feeling full quickly when eating: As the tumour grows, it can press against the stomach, reducing appetite or food tolerance.
- Unexplained weight loss: A general symptom of many cancers, often due to changes in metabolism or decreased appetite.
- Frequent or urgent need to urinate: This can occur when a growing tumour places pressure on the bladder.
- Fatigue: A common sign of cancer, often linked to the body’s energy being redirected to fight abnormal cells.
If you notice any of these symptoms more than 12 times in a month, it’s time to see a medical professional.
Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented?
There’s no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer, but the risk can be significantly reduced. Here’s how:
- Regular Check-ups: Especially for women with a family history of cancer or who are over 40. Diagnostic tests like transvaginal ultrasounds and CA-125 blood tests can help detect abnormalities early.
- Oral Contraceptives: Studies suggest women who use birth control pills for several years may have a lower risk.
- Healthy Diet & Lifestyle: A balanced diet rich in antioxidants, regular physical activity, and maintaining a healthy weight play an important role.
- Genetic Testing: For those with a family history, testing for BRCA1 and BRCA2 gene mutations can inform preventive strategies.
Protecting Yourself: Early Detection Saves Lives
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we believe that awareness is the first step towards protection. That’s why we offer affordable, walk-in ovarian cancer screening services tailored for women of all ages. Our experienced team provides safe, confidential, and accurate diagnostic tests, including CA-125 blood analysis and transvaginal ultrasounds.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I be worried?” The answer is: Let’s check and be sure. A simple test today can change your life tomorrow.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or simply seeking reassurance, our diagnostic centre is here to support you every step of the way. No long queues. No complicated processes. Just clarity, compassion, and care you can trust.
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we believe that awareness is the first step towards protection. Our experienced team provides safe, confidential, and accurate diagnostic screenings for women at all stages of life.
If you’ve ever wondered, “Should I be worried?” The answer is: Let’s check and be sure. A simple test today can change your life tomorrow.
Whether you’re experiencing symptoms or just want peace of mind, our modern diagnostic centre is here to support you. No long queues. No complicated processes. Just clarity, compassion, and care.
Ovarian Cancer: Available Treatments
If diagnosed early, ovarian cancer can be treated successfully. Treatments vary depending on the stage and type, and may include:
- Surgery: Often the first line of treatment, to remove the tumour or affected ovary.
- Chemotherapy: Used before or after surgery to kill remaining cancer cells.
- Targeted Therapy: A newer approach that focuses on specific genes or proteins in cancer cells.
- Hormone Therapy: In some cases, hormones are used to slow cancer growth.
Why This Matters, especially in Nigeria
In Nigeria, cultural stigma, lack of awareness, and inadequate access to medical facilities have all contributed to the rising number of late-stage diagnoses. But we can rewrite that story.
By prioritising education, open conversations, and accessible diagnostics, we can ensure that more Nigerian women catch the disease early, when survival rates are over 90%.
Final Word: Every Woman Deserves to Know
You don’t need to wait until symptoms appear. You don’t need to wait for a tragedy to strike close to home. Knowing your body is knowing your power.
On this World Ovarian Cancer Day, take a stand for your mother, your sister, your daughter, your friend, or yourself.
Here’s what you can do today:
- Book a screening or encourage someone you love to do the same
- Learn more about ovarian cancer and its early signs
- Share this information with your community
- Ask your doctor questions, no concern is too small
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we’re not just testing, we’re transforming lives through awareness, prevention, and early detection.
You don’t need to wait until symptoms appear. You don’t need to wait for a tragedy to strike close to home. Knowing your body is knowing your power.
On this World Ovarian Cancer Day, take a stand for your mother, your sister, your daughter, your friend, or yourself. Schedule a screening. Ask questions. Share this message.
At MABIFUS Medical Diagnostics, we’re not just testing, we’re transforming lives through awareness, prevention, and early detection.
Book Your Screening Today
96, Ibrahim Taiwo Road, Opposite MRS Filling Station, Taiwo Isale, Ilorin, Kwara State
0818 511 2170 | 0905 110 3808
Visit www.mabifus.com us on-site or call to book an appointment.
