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Do Annual Screenings Reduce Risk of Death in Ovarian Cancer?

Writer's picture: Women's Cancer Research FoundationWomen's Cancer Research Foundation


In a large, British ovarian cancer trial sponsored by the UK Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening, 200,000 women were followed for a median of 16 years.


The primary intent of the study was to ascertain if annual screening measures reduced the risk of death from ovarian cancer. The investigators analyzed the women using either screening with a combination of CA-125 (a serum blood test for monitoring cancer) and transvaginal ultrasound (USS) or USS alone. Interestingly, the results indicated that the screening measures were successful at detecting ovarian cancer at an earlier stage of disease. Nevertheless, neither the combination monitoring with the CA-125 and USS nor the USS alone was successful in reducing the risk of death from ovarian cancer.


The investigators analyzed the women using either screening with a combination of CA-125 (a serum blood test for monitoring cancer) and transvaginal ultrasound (USS) or USS alone.

Consequently, the authors concluded that since screening measures did not save lives, they cannot recommend ovarian cancer screening for the general population. Ovarian cancer is an aggressive disease, with a 10-year survival rate of 35%. The malignancy is difficult to diagnose, and more than half the cases are diagnosed at an advanced stage. While screening cannot be recommended at this time, physicians should be vigilant when their patients present with symptoms indicative of ovarian cancer.


About Women’s Cancer Research Foundation The Women’s Cancer Research Foundation (WCRF) is one of Southern California’s and the nation’s most active research organizations for female cancers. We are dedicated to serving the interests of patients, families, and friends affected by women’s cancers. WCRF partners with physician-scientists nationally to make differences in women’s lives by offering hope, strength, and progress.



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ABOUT US 

Since 1985, the physicians and researchers at the WCRF have been at the forefront of pioneering clinical research, aimed at enhancing cure rates among women diagnosed with breast, ovarian, uterine, and cervical cancers. WCRF actively engages in designing, conducting, and disseminating groundbreaking research focused on cutting-edge medical treatments.


Furthermore, WCRF serves as a vital hub for both foundational and applied research, as well as education, pertaining to the latest advancements in the treatment of breast and gynecologic cancers. In addition to conducting and publishing original research, the WCRF, provides valuable clinical information to physicians and patients alike.
 

 

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