India, Sept. 6 -- Ovarian cancer can begin quietly, with symptoms often mistaken for digestive or menstrual problems. It develops when abnormal cells in or around the ovaries grow uncontrollably. It can affect women at different ages, with risk generally increasing with age. Family history and inherited genetic changes such as BRCA1 and BRCA2 can increase risk. Early symptoms may be subtle. Persistent bloating, abdominal or pelvic discomfort, feeling full quickly, changes in bowel or bladder habits, unexplained weight changes or unusual fatigue should not be ignored, particularly when new, persistent or becoming more frequent. There is currently no routine screening test proven to reliably detect ovarian cancer in women at average risk who have no symptoms. When cancer is suspected, doctors may use pelvic examination, ultrasound, blood tests such as CA-125 and other investigations, interpreted together rather than individually. Treatment depends on the type and stage and may include surgery, chemotherapy and targeted therapies. Advances in genetic testing and precision medicine have helped identify patients who may benefit from specific treatments targeting certain molecular features. Women with a strong family history of ovarian or breast cancer should discuss individual risk and genetic counselling with a healthcare professional. Persistent symptoms deserve attention, not fear. Early medical evaluation can make a meaningful difference. The author of this article is Dr Umesh N Jindal, MD (OB-GYN PGI, Chandigarh), director, former assistant professor, WHO/CCR, PGI; former fellow, University of Washington, Seattle & RSA Kansas City, USA; member, American Society for Reproductive Medicine, FOGSI/ISAR/IMA/ISOPARB/IFS/ESHRE, member, Fertility Preservation Society of India; Jindal IVF, SCO 21, Sector 20-D, Dakshin Marg, Chandigarh, who can be contacted at 958-246-9429...