Ovarian Cancer

Unlike mammography, no routine test, such as a Pap smear, can yet detect ovarian cancer. Each year, approximately 22,000 women in the United States are diagnosed with ovarian cancer.

Despite having no history of cancer in my family, I received this diagnosis and prognosis. I was thrown completely off balance!

Cancer diagnosis, treatment, and recovery can lead to changes in your sexual anatomy, functioning, and your feelings about your sexuality.

A look at how Roberta Aberle deals with the fact that cancer runs in her family.

Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer-related deaths in women, accounting for more deaths than any other cancer of the female reproductive system.

In 1997 I was 27, happy, free, and traveling the world as a flight attendant. Newly married and ready to have a baby, I felt strong and invincible. My future was unfolding just as I expected it to. Until the symptoms appeared ever so subtly.

In August 2017, the FDA approved Lynparza tablets for the maintenance treatment of adults with recurrent epithelial ovarian, fallopian tube, or peritoneal cancer who had a response to platinum-based chemotherapy.

Dr. Julian Schink, GYN Oncology Chief of Cancer Treatment Centers of America, provides screening tips and recommendations for these 2 most common gynecologic cancers.

In her Introduction to the special edition of CONQUER titled Understanding Biomarkers & Molecular Testing, Lillie D. Shockney, RN, BS, MAS, ONN-CG, briefly explains what biomarkers are, why they are important, and what you should know about them.  

As a retired college professor, Dr. McElhiney uses her personal experience with ovarian cancer to advocate for other patients, urging faster development of new treatment options.

There are a number of excellent organizations providing resources and support to you as a patient with ovarian cancer or a caregiver.

Late last year, the PARP inhibitor Zejula was approved by the FDA for patients with HRD mutation associated with advanced ovarian, fallopian tube, or primary peritoneal cancer, offering a new treatment option for women with these types of cancer.

Julie Silver ran into many “bumps in the road” after she was diagnosed with stage IV ovarian cancer. Despite many difficulties along the way, today her life is filled with gratitude and appreciation.

In April 2020, the FDA approved Zejula for long-term maintenance therapy for all patients with advanced ovarian cancer, regardless of any gene mutations.

The follow-up results of more than 5 years of the multicenter phase 3 SOLO2 clinical trial of women with ovarian cancer were presented at the 2020 ASCO annual meeting, showing improved survival with the use of Lynparza (olaparib) compared with placebo.

Annette McElhiney, PhD, notes the psychosocial needs of patients with cancer, survivors, and caregivers. As an ovarian cancer survivor, she describes the help provided by the recently launched “Steps Through Ovarian Cancer” program.

Diagnosed with ovarian cancer at age 3, Tiffany R. Easley learned the power of owning one’s story, detailing her powerful “SOAR” survivor mindset.

Women with advanced ovarian cancer now have a new once-daily treatment option. In April 2020, the Food and Drug Administration (FDA) approved Zejula (niraparib) for the maintenance treatment of all women with advanced ovarian cancer (including epithelial cancer, fallopian tube cancer, and primary peritoneal cancer) who have responded well to first-line chemotherapy. Maintenance therapy is the treatment of cancer with medication, typically following a first round of treatment (in this case, platinum-based chemotherapy).

Kristen Foreman dealt with an ovarian cancer diagnosis at age 33. After removal of her ovaries, she completed chemotherapy, followed by 6 weeks of radiation, during a global pandemic. She now aspires to support others facing similar circumstances.

Melanie Shepard was diagnosed with stage IIIB ovarian cancer during the pandemic; she shares her experience of receiving treatment and support during these uniquely stressful times.

Find financial assistance programs available for ovarian cancer drugs.