Ovarian Cancer Test

 The ovaries are a pair of reproductive glands in women. Located in the pelvis, one on each side of the uterus. Each ovary is about the size and shape of an almond. The ovaries produce eggs (ova) and female hormones. During each monthly menstrual cycle, an egg is released from one ovary. 

 

Ovarian and Endometrial Cancer is the fourth or fifth most common cause of cancer-related deaths among women worldwide and is responsible for 5% of all cancer deaths in women.

The high death rate is mostly attributable to its late detection. Earlier detection using cancer tests are essential for improved survival.

 

We test for Cancer Antigen 125 (CA125).

 

CA125 is a protein produced by cancer cells and which can be raised in cancers of the ovary, lung, breast, pancreas and gastrointestinal tract. As CA125 is also produced by normal cells it is important to know your base level and monitor regularly so that any change can be picked up early. 

 

A raised level is not necessarily a sign of cancer, just as a low level does not guarantee that cancer is not present.