"What To Know About Ovarian Cancer" - Sheila Dougherty
According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer kills more American women than any other cancer of the reproductive system. As of 2017, 22,440 women will receive a new diagnosis of ovarian cancer, and about 14,080 women will die from ovarian cancer. “Ovarian cancer is 10th most common cancer for women and 5th leading cause of death. There is an estimated 21K cases per year in the US,” said Stephanie Blank, MD, professor in gynecologic oncology, obstetrics, gynecology and reproductive science at the Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai and director of women’s health at Mount Sinai Downtown-Chelsea Center. “Risk of ovarian cancer can be reduced by taking birth control pills or by surgically removing the tubes and ovaries.” Ovarian cancer is treated with surgery and usually chemotherapy. “The most important thing a woman who suspects she has ovarian cancer can do to improve her care is to make sure she is being treated by a gynecologic oncologist. Women with ovarian cancer who are treated by gynecologic oncologists live longer,” Dr. Blank added.
- Stephanie V. Blank, MD, Professor in the Division of Gynecologic Oncology, Obstetrics, Gynecology and Reproductive Science, Icahn School of Medicine at Mount Sinai, and Director of Women's Health, Mount Sinai Downtown- Chelsea Center