Obstetrician-Gynaecologist, Professor Samuel Antwi Oppong, has explained that while ovarian cancer is one of the most difficult cancers to detect early, awareness of the risk factors and symptoms can make a big difference in survival rates.

Speaking on Joy FM’s Super Morning Show on Thursday, October 23, as part of Joy Cancer Awareness Month, Prof Oppong said that about 15% of ovarian cancers are genetic or familial, caused by inherited mutations in specific genes.

“About 15% of ovarian cancers are genetic or familial. These occur because of mutations in what we call the breast cancer antigen genes BRCA1 and BRCA2. People who inherit abnormalities in these genes are at higher risk of developing not only ovarian cancer but also breast and colon cancers,” he explained

He added that while these gene mutations are more common in some parts of the world, they are occasionally found in Ghanaian families as well.

“It’s not very common in our part of the world, but we have come across families where we’ve identified mutations in the BRCA genes. Thankfully, some laboratories in Ghana can now run genetic tests, and where that’s not possible, samples can be sent abroad for analysis,” he said.

Prof Oppong explained that diagnosing ovarian cancer often begins with identifying risk factors and symptoms before moving to imaging and laboratory tests.

“The first line of diagnosis is ultrasound,” he said. “Ultrasound helps visualise the ovary to see if it’s enlarged or has suspicious features. We also check for tumour markers certain chemicals in the blood that give us clues about whether a growth might be cancerous.”

However, he cautioned against panic, explaining that not all ovarian enlargements are cancerous.

“It is not every swelling or enlargement of the ovary that is cancerous. We’ve had young ladies panic after routine scans show cysts, but many of these are harmless. People should be careful not to misinterpret ultrasound results and cause unnecessary fear.”

For confirmation, doctors rely on a biopsy and laboratory analysis.

“Even when we suspect ovarian cancer based on ultrasound and tumor markers, the definitive diagnosis is made only after examining a tissue sample,” he said.

According to Prof Oppong, one of the biggest challenges with ovarian cancer is the absence of an effective screening tool, unlike cervical or colon cancer.

“Attempts to detect ovarian cancer early through ultrasound and tumor markers have not worked. That’s why ovarian cancer remains a silent killer; it is usually diagnosed late.”

On treatment, he explained that options depend on the stage of the disease.

“By and large, the first treatment is surgery. If the disease is detected early, surgery can cure it. In advanced cases, we combine surgery with chemotherapy, and sometimes radiotherapy if the cancer reappears.”

He also mentioned that newer forms of treatment, such as immunotherapy and targeted therapy, are being developed based on genetics, but these are mostly available in advanced countries.

Prof Oppong described ovarian cancer as having one of the lowest survival rates.

“Even in the best hospitals abroad, for advanced ovarian cancer, only about 30% of women survive five years after diagnosis. In Ghana, the situation is worse because treatment is expensive, and many patients cannot complete their therapy.”

He mentioned that fertility preservation is rarely possible for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer, as most cases are detected late.

“Fertility preservation is very rare in our setting because by the time patients come in, the disease has spread, and surgery often involves removing all reproductive organs,” he said.

Prof Oppong urged families to be more open about health histories and the causes of death among relatives.

"We must stop hiding such information in the name of protecting the dead. It's important we share this information with those who matter and need to know otherwise. We'll think we are preserving the dignity of the dead, but we may actually be sacrificing the living and their future.

“Let’s use the knowledge we gain to make better health choices,” he added.