The answer depends on factors that include the type and stage of ovarian cancer, the age of the patient, underlying medical conditions, and the time of diagnosis. For some, ovarian cancer is curable, insofar as patients recover completely following treatment, while others have to live with it for the rest of their lives—however long or short that may be.
Factors that Increase the Risk of Ovarian Cancer
While the cause of ovarian cancer remains unclear, medical researchers identified a few factors that may increase your chances of receiving a diagnosis. They include:
Talcum Powder
Many studies linked using talcum powder between the legs to ovarian cancer. While the risk is quite small, studies by National Public Radio (NPR) point out that women who applied talcum powder between their legs are eight percent more likely to develop ovarian cancer than those who never used it.
Age
A woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer increases as she gets older. As such, it is no surprise that more than half of ovarian cancer cases occur in women over the age of 63 years who already experienced menopause. Although younger women are rarely at risk, 1,000 women of pre-menopausal age develop ovarian cancer each year.
Family History
About 15 to 20 percent of ovarian cancer cases are a direct result of a mutated gene—typically BRCA1 or BRCA2. Thus, women who inherit this gene have a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer than the average woman. Additionally, having a family member with a history of ovarian cancer can increase your chance of being diagnosed with the disease. This is why it is essential to undergo genetic screenings to determine any mutations.
Being Overweight
According to the American Cancer Society, women with a body mass index of over 30 are slightly at risk of developing ovarian cancer.
Types of Ovarian Cancer
The main types of ovarian cancer derive their names from the cells they originate from. When discussing whether ovarian cancer is curable, it is essential to discuss the various treatment options for each type. They are as follows:
Epithelial Ovarian Cancer
This is the most common type of ovarian cancer, making up 85 to 90% of all ovarian cancer cases. It can be fatal since it gives off no symptoms; causing most women to be diagnosed in the later stage. Epithelial ovarian cancer forms on the surface of the ovaries and is the fourth most common cancer death in women.
Germ Cell Ovarian Cancer
Forming in the reproductive cells of the ovaries, this type of ovarian cancer is rare. It is large and has an incredibly fast growth rate. Typically, germ cell ovarian cancer occurs in teenagers and women in their 20s. The good news is that it can be treated easily with surgery and chemotherapy.
Stromal Cell Ovarian Cancer
This is another rare ovarian cancer that forms in the connective tissues of the ovary cells. Stromal cell ovarian cancers have a slow growth rate and often produce estrogen and testosterone. Its symptoms are typically obvious since excess estrogen and testosterone cause uterine bleeding and facial hair growth respectively. Stromal cell ovarian cancers are often diagnosed early and treated with surgery.
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Studies in 1982 regarding ovarian cancer and talc suggest that the manufacturers of talcum powder knew that their product posed a threat to the health of women after prolonged use, yet they failed to provide any warning. It also came to light that talcum powder increases a woman’s risk of developing ovarian cancer by 33 percent. Thus, these manufacturers jeopardized the lives of thousands of women due to negligence.
If you or a loved one used talcum powder for feminine hygiene purposes and developed ovarian cancer, you may be eligible to file a claim. The personal injury lawyers of Pintas & Mullins Law Firm may be able to help you receive a financial award that can cover your past and future medical expenses, psychological distress, lost income, prescription drugs, medical equipment, and more.
To discuss your case with a member of our team, call us today at (800) 794-0444 for a free consultation. We operate on a contingency basis, so you would never have to worry about paying anything out-of-pocket.
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