Ovarian, prostate cancer show few early symptoms

At first glance it may seem odd to lump ovarian cancer, which affects women, and prostate cancer, which affects men, together in one month to raise national awareness.

However, according to the American Cancer Society, both ovarian cancer and prostate cancer show very subtle symptoms in the early stages.

“It all comes down to paying attention to our bodies,” Melissa Alvarez, Pharm.D., PA-C, said.

Alvarez is a family practice medical provider who has been treating both male and female patients at CBHA clinics since 2004.

Symptoms occurring early in prostate cancer might include problems passing urine and blood in the urine. As the cancer progresses, patients may experience pain in the hips, back and chest as well as weakness or numbness in legs or feet.

The patient also may have trouble controlling urination in the more advanced stages. Alvarez recommends that men talk to their medical provider about testing during their annual physical exam.

There are several types of screening tests for prostate cancer: the PSA (Prostate-Specific Antigen) Blood Test and the Digital Rectal Exam.

“Generally, recommendations from the American Cancer Society specify annual screening at age 50 or earlier if there is a higher risk due to family history,” Alvarez said.

However, Alvarez points out that there is disagreement in medical circles about prostate cancer testing. That is why she recommends that patients discuss this with their medical provider.

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often vague in the early stages.

“People lead busy lives and they may overlook what they consider minor issues with their health. However, symptoms are frequently occurring,” Alvarez said.

They include bloating, pelvic pain or pain in the hips, urination troubles (frequency, urgency), constipation and menstrual changes. Despite research efforts, there is no official ovarian cancer screening test at this time.

Alvarez said the two tests currently being used to screen for ovarian cancer are transvaginal ultrasound and the CA-125 blood test. These cancers can be cured when caught in their early stages.

“As a cancer grows, it becomes harder to treat. Recognizing the signs and symptoms is a patient’s biggest advantage in the early detection of these cancers,” Alvarez said. “If something doesn’t feel quite right in your body, it might be a sign that something is wrong.”

Alvarez suggests that all patients make time in their schedules for their yearly preventive visits for themselves and their families.