Causes The predominant type of ovarian cancer is believed to result from repetitive injury to the surface of the ovary. Never having had children. Women who have previously been diagnosed with cancers of the breast, uterus, colon or rectum. Preventive Measures Have yearly pelvic examinations which may aid in earlier detection and treatment. If your mother or sister had ovarian cancer, additional screening tests, such as ultrasound, may be recommended.
Oral contraceptives help with prevention.
The prognosis is related closely to the stage of the disease when it is first diagnosed. With aggressive treatment, the long-term survival rate is improving. Fatal spread of cancer to other body parts. There are several blood tests or tumor markers available, the most common being CA-125. Additional tests are generally needed to determine if the cancer has spread to other regions of the body.