Ovarian Cancer Research: A Strategic Survey Analysis for Breakthroughs in Early Detection and Therapy

Abstract

Introduction: Ovarian cancer is one of the most lethal gynecological malignancies and is often referred to as the “silent killer” due to the absence of specific symptoms in its early stages. Late detection contributes to high mortality rates globally. This study aimed to assess women’s awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms, evaluate recognition of family history as a risk factor, and provide a preliminary symptom-based estimate of potential disease prevalence within the study population. Materials and Methods: A cross-sectional, questionnaire-based survey was conducted from February to March 2022 using a convenience sampling method. The survey targeted women aged ≥18 years. Inclusion criteria were: adult women (≥18 years), ability to understand English, and provision of informed digital consent. Exclusion criteria included incomplete questionnaires           and inconsistent demographic responses. A total of 300 responses were collected via Google Forms. The questionnaire consisted of 10 structured and validated items addressing demographic variables, awareness of ovarian cancer, family history, and common clinical symptoms. Content validity was established through expert review by a gynecologist, an oncologist, and a public health specialist. A pilot test with 10 women assessed clarity and comprehension, leading to refinement of question wording. Data were cleaned and analyzed in Microsoft Excel. Descriptive statistics (frequencies and percentages) were used to summarize demographic characteristics, awareness levels, symptom prevalence, and treatment history. No inferential tests were applied due to the descriptive nature of the study. Results: Among respondents, 68.4% were aware of ovarian cancer, while 31.6% reported no awareness. Family history of ovarian or related cancers was reported by 6.1% of participants. Commonly reported symptoms included abdominal pain/bloating (39.8%), abdominal swelling (39.8%), prolonged or heavier bleeding (32.7%), abnormal vaginal discharge (19.4%), weight gain (19.4%), and weight loss (15.3%). Among participants, 11.2% reported having benign fibroid cysts, 6.1% had undergone surgical treatment, and 4.1% reported receiving chemotherapy. Conclusion: Findings reveal considerable gaps in awareness of ovarian cancer symptoms and risk factors, underscoring the need for targeted educational initiatives and early screening programs. Although some therapeutic advances—such as PARP inhibitors (e.g., Rucaparib) and fluorescence-guided imaging agents (e.g., Pafolacianine)—are improving disease management, public awareness remains crucial for timely diagnosis. Larger, more representative studies are recommended to better characterize population-wide awareness and strengthen early detection strategies.