Ovarian cancer: These signs and symptoms should not be ignored

New Delhi: Ovarian cancer is one the most common form of cancers found among women across the globe. It takes growth in the ovaries and takes full form when a tumour occurs in the ovary's cells. The disease is also known as 'silent cancer' because it does not show any symptom for a long time.

Ovarian cancer often goes undetected until the disease spreads within the pelvis and stomach. The deadly disease is more difficult to treat and can be fatal if detected at the last stage.

Since ovarian cancer rarely shows any symptoms in early stages, it often goes undected until it reaches an advanced stage. The disease can affect women of any age, however, it is most frequently diagnosed in postmenopausal women.

The most common signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer are:

• Abdominal bloating or swelling
• Constipation
• Persistent pelvic and abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating and quickly feeling full when eating
• Nausea
• Weight loss
• A frequent need to urinate
• Menstrual changes
• Painful intercourse

But, one can reduce the risk of developing ovarian cancer by simply making healthy choices like- proper physical activity and eating a healthy diet.

Blueberry

The fruit contains rich amount of antioxidants that help to prevent the development of many forms of cancer. Blueberry is also packed with cancer-fighting agents like vitamins C and K, to manganese and dietary fibre.

Spinach

This green veggie contains the cancer-fighting agent kaempferol, which has the potential to kill cancer cells. It is also loaded down with powerful antioxidants, vitamins and minerals that can form an effective team for fighting and preventing cancer.

Kale

Kale contains the cancer-fighting agent kaempferol and also loaded with powerful antioxidants, vitamins, and iron, making it very good for health.

Onions

Onions contain a range of cancer-fighting agents, from apigenin, anthocyanin, and myricetin to quercetin that helps to reduce the risk of developing several types of cancer, including ovarian cancer.

Fish

Fish contains rich amount of omega-3 fatty acids that can help prevent the development of cancers by limiting the blood supply to cancer cells.

Tomatoes

Tomato contains the anti-angiogenic agent lycopene, a pigment that gives red fruits and vegetables their distinctive colours that prevent the development of ovarian cancer.