Ovarian Cancer Awareness: What Every Woman in Dubai Needs to Know

Ovarian cancer is one of the most serious cancers affecting women today. Yet many women know very little about it. In the UAE, cancer rates are rising. Early detection saves lives. This guide gives you the knowledge to recognise the warning signs — and the confidence to act on them. 

The single most important thing you can do is listen to your body. When something feels different, speak to a doctor. A consultation could change everything. 

What Is Ovarian Cancer? 

The ovaries are two small organs in a woman’s lower abdomen. They produce eggs and hormones like oestrogen and progesterone. Ovarian cancer starts when cells in or near the ovaries grow out of control. 

It is the eighth most common cancer in women worldwide. Each year, around 314,000 women are diagnosed globally (World Health Organization, 2023). In the GCC region, including the UAE, ovarian cancer is a growing concern — particularly because it is often caught late. 

The good news is that when it is found early, the chances of a good outcome are much higher. That is why understanding the signs matters so much. 

Why Is It Called the “Silent Cancer”? 

Ovarian cancer is often called the “silent cancer.” This is because its early symptoms are easy to miss or confuse with everyday problems. Many women dismiss the signs as bloating, a busy schedule, or digestive issues. 

By the time symptoms become obvious, the cancer may have already spread. This is why you should never ignore symptoms that are new, persistent, or getting worse. Seeing a doctor early is always the right decision. 

Signs and Symptoms to Watch For 

You should not wait for severe pain before seeing a doctor. Look out for these signs — especially if they last more than two to three weeks: 

• Bloating that does not go away 

• Pelvic or belly pain that feels dull or sharp 

• Feeling full quickly when eating 

• Needing to urinate more often than usual 

• Unexplained weight loss or gain 

• Fatigue that rest does not fix 

• Changes in bowel habits without an obvious cause 

• Pain during intercourse 

These symptoms are not unique to ovarian cancer. But if they are new, persistent, or getting worse — do not wait. Book a consultation with your Gynaecologist. Getting checked is never wasted time. 

Who Is Most at Risk? 

Every woman has some level of risk. But certain factors increase that risk: 

• Age: Most cases occur in women over 50. However, younger women are not immune. 

• Family history: If a close relative — mother, sister, or daughter — had ovarian or breast cancer, your risk is higher. Around 10–15% of ovarian cancers are linked to inherited gene changes, especially in the BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes (American Cancer Society, 2023). 

• Personal health history: Women who have had breast cancer, or who have endometriosis, face a slightly higher risk. 

• Never been pregnant: Women who have never carried a pregnancy to term may have a marginally higher risk. 

• Hormone therapy: Long-term use of oestrogen-only hormone replacement therapy (HRT) after menopause may slightly increase risk (Cancer Research UK, 2023). 

• Obesity: Being significantly overweight is linked to a higher risk of several cancers, including ovarian cancer. 

If any of these risk factors apply to you, that is a reason to speak to your Gynaecologist — not a reason to worry alone. A conversation is always the first step. 

Living in a city like Dubai, with its modern lifestyle, rich food culture, and high stress levels, means that routine health checks deserve a permanent place in your calendar. 

Can Ovarian Cancer Be Prevented? 

There is no guaranteed way to prevent ovarian cancer. But some things can lower your risk: 

• Using the contraceptive pill for five or more years has been shown to reduce risk by up to 50% (Collaborative Group on Epidemiological Studies of Ovarian Cancer, 2021). 

• Pregnancy and breastfeeding appear to have a protective effect. 

• Maintaining a healthy weight through a balanced diet and regular activity supports overall hormonal health. 

• Avoiding smoking and limiting alcohol also support general cancer prevention. 

If you have a strong family history of cancer, a conversation with your Gynaecologist is one of the most valuable steps you can take. They can assess your personal risk and advise on the right path forward for you. 

What Happens When You See a Doctor? 

Many women delay seeing a doctor because they are unsure what to expect. Here is what your visit may look like: 

Your Gynaecologist will start by listening to you. They will ask about your symptoms, your health history, and your family history. This conversation alone is incredibly valuable. 

Depending on your symptoms, they may recommend one or more of the following: 

• Pelvic examination — a physical check of your reproductive organs 

• Ultrasound scan — an imaging test that looks at the ovaries and surrounding area 

• Blood test (CA-125) — a protein marker that can sometimes be raised in women with ovarian cancer, though it is used alongside other tests 

• Further imaging — such as a CT or MRI scan to get a clearer picture if needed 

If further investigation is needed, your doctor will guide you through the next steps and refer you to the right specialist. You will not face this alone. 

Early-stage diagnosis leads to much better outcomes. When caught at Stage 1, the five-year survival rate can be over 90% (Cancer Research UK, 2023). The earlier you seek help, the more options are available to you. 

Understanding Treatment: What You Should Know 

While your HealthHub doctor will ensure you are properly assessed and guided, it helps to understand the types of treatment that specialists use. Treatment always depends on the type and stage of the cancer. 

• Surgery: Often the first step. It aims to remove the cancer and confirm the diagnosis. 

• Chemotherapy: Uses medicines to destroy cancer cells. It is commonly used after surgery. 

• Targeted therapy: Newer medicines that work on specific changes in cancer cells, including treatments for women with certain inherited gene mutations (National Cancer Institute, 2023). 

• Immunotherapy: Helps the body’s own immune system fight cancer. This is a growing area of research with promising results. 

Every woman’s treatment plan is personal. Specialist teams work together to choose the best approach. Your role is to get the conversation started as early as possible.