Ovarian Cancer: Why Awareness Matters

By: Dr. Lyuba Levine, DHR Health Gynecologic Oncologist
2717 Michelangelo Drive Suite 303 Edinburg, TX 78539
For more information or to speak to one of our experts, call (956) 362-2465
To learn more about oncology and women’s health services at DHR Health visit, https://dhrhealth.com/services/oncology/ and https://dhrhealth.com/services/womens-health/

Every May, World Ovarian Cancer Day brings attention to one of the most serious health issues affecting women. While May 8th is the official day, the message it carries about raising awareness, recognizing the signs, and encouraging early action is something we should carry with us throughout the week and beyond.

Often called the “silent killer,” ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages because the symptoms are subtle. Bloating, pelvic pain, feeling full quickly, and frequent urination are among the most common signs, but they’re also symptoms that many women might dismiss or attribute to something else. Because of this, ovarian cancer is frequently diagnosed at a later stage, when treatment becomes more difficult.

There is currently no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, which is why awareness and early action are so important. Paying attention to changes in your body and speaking up when something feels off can make a significant difference. When detected early, ovarian cancer is much more treatable—but in many cases, it’s not found until it has already progressed.

Each year, ovarian cancer affects around 300,000 women worldwide. It ranks as the fifth leading cause of cancer-related death in women and is the deadliest of all gynecologic cancers. Knowing your family history also plays an important role, as genetic factors like BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutations can increase risk.

What You Can Do to Stay Informed and Proactive:

• Pay attention to changes in your body
• Know your family history—genetic factors like BRCA mutations increase risk
• Advocate for yourself in healthcare settings
• Support local awareness efforts and encourage screening conversations

Paying attention to your health, having open conversations, and encouraging others to do the same can make a real difference. Ovarian cancer is often caught too late, but it doesn’t have to be. The more we know and share as a community, the better our chances of catching it early. Every woman deserves that chance—and it starts with awareness.

About Dr. Levine

Levine, a dual board-certified specialist at DHR Health Women’s Institute, offers expert, minimally invasive care for gynecologic cancers and complex conditions. She is dedicated to providing personalized, compassionate treatment tailored to each patient.

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