1. The client/caregiver can define ovarian cancer.
   1. Women have two ovaries (each the size of an almond), one on each side of the uterus.
   2. Ovaries produce eggs (ova), estrogen, and progesterone.
   3. Ovarian cancer ranks fifth in cancer deaths among women.
   4. The types of ovarian tumors are
      1. Epithelial tumors develop in the layer of tissue that covers the ovaries. About 80% to 90% of ovarian cancers develop here. It is most common in post- menopausal women.
      2. Germ cell tumors develop in the egg-producing cells and usually occur in younger women.
      3. Stromal tumors develop in the estrogen and progesterone-producing tissue.
2. The client/caregiver can list signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.
   1. Symptoms are nonspecific and can appear like those of other common conditions. Symptoms are persistent and gradually worsen.
   2. There is abdominal swelling and sense of bloating or fullness and increased abdominal girth with normal clothing fitting tightly.
   3. There is pain in the lower abdomen and pelvic area (sometimes lower back).
   4. There is unexplained weight loss or gain.
   5. There is a lack of energy.
   6. There are gastrointestinal complaints, such as indigestion, gas, nausea, diarrhea, or constipation.
   7. There are urinary complaints such as frequency or feeling of urgency to void.
   8. There are menstrual changes and abnormal uterine bleeding.
3. The client/caregiver can list risk factors for ovarian cancer.
   1. Inherited gene mutation
   2. Family history
   3. Age. Most ovarian cancers develop after menopause but can occur earlier.
   4. Childbearing status. Women with at least one pregnancy have a lower risk.
   5. Infertility increases the risk.
   6. Ovarian cysts that form after menopause are more likely cancerous.
   7. Obesity in early adulthood. It is also linked to a more aggressive type of ovarian cancer.
4. The client/caregiver can list the stages of ovarian cancer.
   1. Stage I is confined to one or both ovaries.
   2. Stage II has spread to locations in the pelvis such as the uterus or fallopian tubes.
   3. Stage III has spread to the lining of the abdomen or to the lymph nodes. This typically is when ovarian cancer is diagnosed.
   4. Stage IV is when the cancer has spread beyond the abdomen.
5. The client/caregiver can list methods of screening for ovarian cancer.
   1. Regular pelvic exams
   2. Ultrasound of pelvis
   3. CA 125 blood test
   4. Pelvic CT or MRI
   5. Laparotomy or laparoscopy to obtain samples of abdominal fluid and/or ovary tissue.
6. The client/caregiver can list measures to manage and treat ovarian cancer.
   1. Have surgery.
   2. Have chemotherapy.
   3. Eat protein-rich foods. Eat smaller amounts of food more frequently. Eat nutritionally dense foods.
   4. Reduce stress.
   5. Be informed and learn what to expect.
   6. Build and maintain a support system.

Resources

Clergy

Support groups

Ovarian Cancer National Alliance
www.ovariancancer.org

The National Women’s Health Information Center
www.4woman.gov

National Cancer Institute
www.cancer.gov/cancerinfo/types/ovarian