Friday, May 9 2025 | Time 01:16 Hrs(IST)
States » EastPosted at: May 8 2025 9:57PM


Ovarian cancer affects nearly 7 in every lakh Indian women, warn expert

Kolkata, May 8 (UNI) Ranking as the third most frequent cancer affecting women in India, ovarian maligancy is found in approximately 6.8 cases per 100,000 females in the country, a renowned expert said here on Thursday quoting Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) data
On the occasion of World Ovarian Cancer Day, acclaimed gynaecological oncologist Asima Mukhopadhyay stressed the critical need for early detection in treating ovarian cancer- an insidious malignancy that continues to elude timely diagnosis in the vast majority of cases.
"Ovarian cancer ranks as the third most frequent cancer affecting women in India. Data from the Indian Council of Medical Research (ICMR) indicates that the age-adjusted incidence rate of this disease is approximately 6.8 cases per 100,000 women in India", remarked Dr. Asima Mukhopadhyay.
Mukhopadhyay drew attention to the disparity in survival outcomes based on the stage at diagnosis. While early-stage (I-II) diagnoses boast significantly higher cure rates (up to 90% for stage I and 70% 5-year survival for stage II), a mere 20% of cases are currently detected at these treatable stages.
Tragically, long-term survival plummets to 20% or less when the cancer spreads beyond the pelvis (stages III-IV). Computer simulations offer a promising outlook, suggesting that earlier detection of preclinical disease could lead to a substantial 10–30% improvement in survival rates and prove to be a cost-effective approach.
Mukhopadhyay, whose extensive training and PhD focused on ovarian cancer, claims to have made a discovery in identifying homologous recombination deficiency (HRD) in 50% of epithelial ovarian cancers. This finding is crucial in predicting a patient's response to PARP inhibitors, a significant advancement in personalised treatment.
Her commitment extends to establishing a vital cytoreductive surgery programme and a research group in India. Furthermore, she founded the KolGoTrg, the first Indian group within the Gynaecological Cancer Intergroup, facilitating crucial participation in international clinical trials.
An estimated 10% to 15% of malignancies, including ovarian, breast, oral and prostate cancers, are attributed to inherited genetic mutations, positioning familial predisposition as a significant contributing factor in oncogenesis.
In recent years, risk-reducing surgeries such as salpingectomy (removal of the fallopian tubes) after childbearing - a leading example is the Hollywood star Angelina Jolie, who underwent similar preventive procedures - are being suggested by doctors. Additionally , several longitudinal studies indicate that the use of hormonal contraceptive pills is associated with a significant reduction in ovarian cancer incidence.
In light of ovarian cancer's characteristically asymptomatic progression in its incipient stages oncologists advocate for the initiation of systematic surveillance beginning at age 30, recommending two key diagnostic tools: pelvic ultrasound and serum CA-125 testing, both instrumental in early detection.
Meanwhile, global oncologist experts are joining forces to set up a white paper, urging the World Health Organisation (WHO) to revise its current stance and formally recognise ovarian cancer as a critical public health priority.
Doctors are now urging women and families to learn about the often-overlooked early warning signs of ovarian cancer such as persistent bloating, abdominal discomfort or changes in appetite and seek medical advice without delay.
According to the expert, there are certain changes that one can bring into life, including lifestyle choices, eating habits and daily exercise, which lead to a decrease in the chances of premature cell ageing. UNI NST SSP
Tags: #Ovarian cancer affects nearly 7 in every lakh Indian women# warn expert
More News

Bangladeshi nationals try to disrupt joint border pillar survey in Meghalaya

09 May 2025 | 12:16 AM

Shillong, May 8 (UNI) A group of Bangladeshi nationals on Thursday tried to disrupt a joint border pillar survey at Naljuri area along the India-Bangladesh border in Meghalaya.

see more..

India's S-400 defence system foiled Pak misadventure to target Indian bases: Bihar Dy CM

09 May 2025 | 12:10 AM

Patna, May 8 (UNI) Bihar Deputy Chief Minister Samrat Chaudhary on Thursday said the S-400 defence system of India, acquired during the tenure of Prime Minister Narendra Modi, had proved to be of immense use in foiling the misadventure of Pakistan of targeting 15 military bases in India.

see more..

Sand Sculpture on “Sudarshan Chakra” at Puri Beach Pays tribute to Indian Armed Forces

08 May 2025 | 11:16 PM

Puri, May 8 (UNI) Renowned sand artist Sudarsan Pattnaik has created a stunning sand sculpture of the anti-missile system Sudarshan Chakra at Puri beach in Odisha, carrying the message “Jai Hind, Salute to Indian Armed Forces”.

see more..
CM alerts bordering areas across Bihar

CM alerts bordering areas across Bihar

08 May 2025 | 11:11 PM

Patna, May 8 (UNI) In the backof operation Sindoor, Bihar Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday reviewed the security arrangements and instructed the authorities to remain alert in the bordering areas across the state.

see more..

Nitish launches scheme to provide financial incentives to Neera tappers and toddy palm tree owners

08 May 2025 | 10:56 PM

Patna, May 8 (UNI) Chief Minister Nitish Kumar on Thursday launched the "Mukhya Mantri Neera Sanvardhan Yojana' for providing financial incentives to Neera tappers and toddy palm tree owners in Bihar.

see more..