In 2022, over 3 lakh cases of ovarian cancer were reported worldwide, and the distribution of reported cases spread across countries from all continents, starting from Latvia to Samoa. Though the age-standardized rate (ASR) of ovarian cancer varies significantly from one country to another, both developed and underdeveloped economies reported the incidence of the disease. India is a leading destination for international patients from many of these countries looking for affordable ovarian cancer treatments. Cancer care at some of the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India is not just affordable but also at par with global oncological treatment standards.
This article discusses ovarian cancer as a disease and the reasons behind the popularity of India for ovarian cancer treatment among international patients.
How serious is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer is the 5th highest reason behind cancer death among women across the world. The chance of suffering from this cancer is 1 in 78, while the risk of death is 1 in 108. The survival rate deteriorates significantly with the advancing stages.
- For stage 1 patients, the 5-year survival rate is 95% after the diagnosis.
- For stage 2, the same rate is 70%.
- For stage 3, it is 30%.
- For stage 4, the rate is 15%.
This is why correct and timely diagnosis is very important. However, most of the population vulnerable to the disease hardly goes through regular screening and a lack of awareness regarding the implications causes delays in consultation with doctors, despite the experience of early symptoms. The stigma around the discussion of female reproductive issues is another major reason behind the late detection of this deadly cancer of the reproductive system.
What are the early symptoms of ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer may not have any significant symptoms in its early phase and many of the symptoms can be mistaken for other health issues. However, women in vulnerable age groups should be careful about the following early signs:
- Abdominal pain – the discomfort persists in the lower abdomen or pelvic region.
- Bloating – chronic feeling of fullness in the stomach.
- Significant loss of appetite – a feeling of stomach filling up quickly.
- Increase frequency of urination – similar to symptoms of infections in the urinary tract.
- Constipation, diarrhea, and other abnormalities in bowel habits.
- Persistent feeling of fatigue or lack of energy.
- Experienceof regular lower back pain despite the absence of obvious causes.
- Abnormal weight loss or gain with no change in diet or lifestyle.
- Menstrual irregularities and postmenopausal bleeding.
- Painful intercourse.
It is particularly crucial to consult doctors if any of these symptoms:
- Seem unusual
- Are persistent
- Are worsening over time
Who is at risk of ovarian cancer?
The following categories of women are more vulnerable to ovarian cancer:
- Middle-aged
- Has a family history of cancer
- Endometriosis patient with diabetes
- Obese
- Has taken hormone replacement therapy
- Experienced late menopause
- Undergone early puberty
Treatment options at the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India
Any of the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India offer all the available advanced treatment options for ovarian cancer, starting from targeted therapies to stem cell transplants. However, the standard treatment plans after diagnosis are:
- Surgery – removing affected cells surgically is the first step in the fight against ovarian cancer.
- Radiation – after surgically removing cells, high-intensity radiation is targeted at the affected location to kill cells that cannot be removed through surgery.
- Chemotherapy – after radiation therapy, chemo-medication helps to prevent cancer from spreading to other organs.
Patients in advanced stages of ovarian cancer may not respond to chemotherapy. For them, doctors may recommend immunotherapy, targeted therapy, and hormone therapy. Bone marrow transplant may further help to enhance the impact of immunotherapy.
The reasons: India as the leading destination for ovarian cancer treatment
Every year, thousands of international patients get admitted to some of the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India for diagnosis, treatment, and post-treatment care. Some of the key reasons behind the popularity of these hospitals are as follow:
Affordable cancer screening
Regular cancer screening for women of vulnerable categories is very important. The cost of regular screening tests and diagnosis is affordable at any of the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India.
Availability of experienced oncologists and surgeons
India is home to many expert oncologists and oncology surgeons. This keeps the costs of doctors’ fees under control, unlike in many other countries. Many of the best ovarian cancer surgery doctors in India also collaborate with international teams on cancer research.
Easy access to advanced treatment plans
Any of the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India has the capacity to treat a large volume of patients due to economies of scale. This means international patients do not need to wait for long periods of time to get treatment.
Affordable post-treatment rehabilitation
Post-treatment cancer care requires regular check-ups and more. Indian hospitals offer affordable packages for post-treatment rehabilitation. Besides, the comparatively lower cost of living in the country makes it affordable for international patients to stay in India for a longer duration should the need arise.
Bottomline
It is advisable to go through regular cancer screening, especially for women in their middle age. Early diagnosis is crucial for successful treatment of any cancer and especially for ovarian cancer. So, do not hesitate or delay in consulting doctors if you or someone you know experiences any of the early symptoms we discussed.
India has developed into a popular destination for international patients looking for affordable and good ovarian cancer care due to the quality of treatment at the best ovarian cancer surgery hospitals in India. So if you’re looking for quality ovarian cancer care alternatives outside your country, India can be among your top options.