Ovarian cancer, though less prevalent than cervical or breast cancer, has the highest mortality rate among female reproductive system tumors, earning it the title "Queen of Gynecologic Cancers." It is difficult to detect early, with 70% of patients diagnosed at an advanced stage. So, how can it be prevented?
Is ovarian cancer really that dangerous?
The ovaries are female reproductive organs located on either side of the uterus. They produce eggs and secrete estrogen and progesterone, regulating hormones throughout menstruation, pregnancy, childbirth, and other stages of a woman's life.
When ovarian or fallopian tube cells grow uncontrollably, ovarian cancer develops.
The exact cause of ovarian cancer remains unclear. Clinical epidemiological data suggest that its onset may be linked to factors such as increasing age, delayed childbirth, a history of chronic pelvic diseases, and living environment.
Although the incidence of ovarian cancer is not very high, it is the most aggressive and challenging to treat among gynecological malignancies:
It can occur at any age but is most common in women aged 40–60 (menopausal or postmenopausal), while cases under 20 are rare.
Symptoms are highly concealed. The ovaries are deep in the female pelvis, so most patients show no obvious symptoms in the early "budding" stage of the tumor. By the time a mass can be felt or symptoms like abdominal pain, frequent urination, or urgency appear, the cancer is often already advanced or widely metastasized.
Ovarian tumor tissue is highly complex, with different types exhibiting distinct biological behaviors—much like different "villains" using different tactics. If you can't identify which type it is, effective treatment becomes difficult.
The prognosis is poor, with a 5-year survival rate of only about 35% for advanced-stage patients.
Common Symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
Ovarian cancer occurs due to sudden genetic mutations. Symptoms like bloating, abdominal pain, loss of appetite, weight loss, or abdominal masses should raise suspicion of ovarian cancer.
Persistent bloating, indigestion, nausea, or poor appetite
For example, constantly feeling bloated, discomfort after eating small amounts, or frequent nausea—while often related to gastrointestinal issues—may also be early warning signs of malignancy.
Vaginal bleeding or menstrual irregularities
Irregular periods are often linked to gynecological conditions. Some ovarian tumors secrete hormones that disrupt menstrual cycles, causing abnormal vaginal bleeding. Women with previously regular periods who suddenly experience irregular cycles or bleeding outside menstruation should seek medical evaluation for possible ovarian issues.
Changes in bowel habits, frequent urination, or urgency
As pelvic tumors grow, they can compress surrounding organs, altering stool shape and bowel habits. Some patients also experience frequent urination or urgency.
Abdominal bloating
Peritoneal metastasis in ovarian cancer can cause ascites (fluid buildup), leading to bloating. Some women mistake this for weight gain, unaware it may be due to fluid accumulation.
Shortness of breath
Some patients develop pleural effusion (fluid around the lungs), causing chest pain, difficulty breathing, or trouble lying flat.
Abdominal mass
As the tumor grows beyond the pelvis, a noticeable lump may be felt in the abdomen. If you can feel a distinct mass, seek medical attention immediately.
Unexplained fatigue, back pain, pain during intercourse, or weight loss
While these symptoms may stem from other conditions, their persistence without improvement warrants serious concern.
Early detection is critical—consult a doctor if symptoms persist!
Traditional Chinese Medicine (TCM) Perspective on Ovarian Cancer and Its Treatment
Based on clinical manifestations, ovarian cancer falls under the categories of "Zhēng Jiǎ (癥瘕)" or "Jī Jù (积聚)" in TCM. TCM theory attributes its pathogenesis to factors such as liver stagnation, spleen deficiency, as well as blood stasis, toxins, and phlegm accumulation.
Since ovarian cancer is moderately sensitive to chemotherapy, many patients seeking TCM treatment are already undergoing surgery, radiotherapy, or chemotherapy. Dr. Qiu Baorun, a TCM gynecologist at Singapore's Gong Fang Tang TCM Clinic, particularly emphasizes the integration of Chinese herbal medicine with conventional treatments like surgery and chemotherapy.
A crucial aspect of ovarian cancer treatment is combining TCM and Western medicine. Commonly used TCM herbs for ovarian cancer include:
Astragalus (黄芪, Huang Qi)
Siberian Ginseng (刺五加, Ci Wu Jia)
Chinese Angelica (当归, Dang Gui)
Ligustrum Lucidum (女贞子, Nü Zhen Zi)
Chinaberry Fruit (川楝子, Chuan Lian Zi)
Corydalis Rhizome (元胡, Yan Hu Suo)
Oldenlandia (白花蛇舌草, Bai Hua She She Cao)
Mock Strawberry (蛇莓, She Mei)
Clinical studies show that taking Chinese herbs before and after surgery can significantly improve outcomes by:
Regulating organ functions
Boosting immunity
Reducing postoperative complications and side effects
Prolonging survival and improving long-term prognosis
Note: TCM should be used as a complementary therapy under professional guidance, not as a replacement for conventional treatment.
