Standing for a cure

• Ovarian cancer often does not show any obvious signs or symptoms until late in its development.

• The risk for developing ovarian cancer increases with age.

• Women who have never had children are more likely to develop ovarian cancer.

• To date, there is no effective testing for ovarian cancer. The ACS advises women to have periodic, thorough pelvic exams.

• Research has found transvaginal ultrasound and a tumor marker, CA125, may help in diagnosis, but they are not yet used for routine screening.

The most common sign of ovarian cancer is enlargement of the abdomen.

In women older than 40, vague digestive disturbances – such as stomach discomfort, gas and distention – that persist and can’t be explained by any other cause may indicate a need for an evaluation for ovarian cancer, including a thorough pelvic exam.

• The five-year survival rate for all stages of ovarian cancer is 50%.

• If diagnosed and treated early, the survival rate is 95%, but only about 25% of cases are found at the localized stage.

— Source: The American Cancer Society

SUE THOENSEN may be reached at (714) 966-4627 or at sue.thoensen@latimes.com.