Doctors Warn Ovarian Cancer Often Diagnosed Late: Key Symptoms and Prevention Methods Explained
SingTao · 1 SOURCES1 day ago2 MIN
Summary
According to 2023 data from the Department of Health, ovarian and peritoneal cancer ranked as the sixth most common cancer among Hong Kong women, with 623 new cases diagnosed that year. The disease claimed 274 lives in 2024, highlighting its deadly nature despite being less prevalent than breast or colorectal cancer. Obstetrician-gynecologist Dr. Tse Sin-ying explains that ovarian tumors are classified into benign, borderline (low malignant potential), and malignant types, with only the malignant category constituting true ovarian cancer .
Key Points
- Hong Kong recorded 623 new ovarian and peritoneal cancer cases in 2023 and 274 deaths in 2024, placing it as the sixth most common female cancer .
- Ovarian cancer is called the "silent killer" because early tumors develop deep in the pelvis without obvious symptoms, often allowing the disease to progress undetected .
- Common benign ovarian tumors include functional cysts, dermoid cysts, cystadenomas, and chocolate cysts related to endometriosis, all of which typically do not spread .
- Postmenopausal women with any ovarian cysts should be highly vigilant as malignant risk increases significantly after menopause .
- Treatment options include surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or targeted therapy, tailored to tumor type, size, stage, and the patient's overall condition .
Why It Matters
The high mortality rate of ovarian cancer in Hong Kong underscores the need for greater public awareness about its vague early symptoms. Since persistent bloating, appetite changes, and abdominal discomfort are easily mistaken for common gastrointestinal problems, many women delay seeking medical evaluation until the disease has advanced .
The high mortality rate of ovarian cancer in Hong Kong underscores the need for greater public awareness about its vague early symptoms. Since persistent bloating, appetite changes, and abdominal discomfort are easily mistaken for common gastrointestinal problems, many women delay seeking medical evaluation until the disease has advanced .