It is believed that early diagnosis of any cancer can reduce the mortality rate. Similarly, the importance of screening for ovarian cancer is being promoted, as 70 percent of cases are diagnosed at an early stage. This is a stage where the chances of getting cured are higher. But according to a research done in the US, the annual screening for ovarian cancer does not reduce the death rate in women with average risks. Moreover, it proves to be more damaging due to invasive medical procedures implemented during the diagnosis and treatment.
Potential screening test include CA-125 blood test and transvaginal ultrasound. The CA-125 protein level tends to increase blood flow during the development of ovarian cancer but it may occur in some other conditions as well. This gives a false positive test and the woman undergoes surgeries, which is not required.
1. The Research
Researchers conducted a clinical trial on 80,000 women between the ages of 55–74 years for annual ovarian screening test or usual care. They were diagnosed either by blood scans or ultrasound. The study was conducted over a follow up period of 13 years.
2. The Findings
Within the screened group, there were 212 ovarian cancer cases and 118 deaths as a result of it. In the unscreened group under usual care, there were 176 ovarian cancer cases and 118 deaths due to it. So, the statistical difference in survival rate was insignificant. Moreover, 3,285 women received a false positive test for cancer. Out of which 1,000 women underwent surgery and 163 women developed some kind of complication due to the invasive surgical procedure.
Therefore, it was stated that the screening test available for diagnosing ovarian cancer is not effective. The tests in no way contributed toward reducing the mortality rate but instead increased the harm due to false positive results.
3. Limitations
The findings of this study do not apply to women who have a family history of ovarian cancer or who are suffering from warning symptoms of ovarian cancer. These women should consult their doctors and discuss their problem.