Ovarian cancer in primary care

Abstract

Ovarian cancer continues to be the leading cause of gynaecological cancer death in the UK. It has previously been described as the ‘silent killer’, as symptoms are typically absent or non-specific early in the disease leading to a later stage at diagnosis where fewer treatment options are available. Stage at presentation influences patient survival, and therefore, early detection within primary care is vital. Currently, there is no screening programme for ovarian cancer, and so diagnosis relies on investigation of symptomatic women presenting to healthcare professionals and an awareness of vague symptoms that could indicate ovarian cancer pathology. This article aims to provide an overview of ovarian cancer, including epidemiology, risk factors, signs and symptoms, and diagnosis within primary care. We will also briefly discuss current treatment strategies for ovarian cancer.