what is the age range for this illness or can it affect anyone..and also if you were diagnosed or have a family member of friend that was diagnosed please could you give as much detail.. what thier symptoms were and how long it took for diagnosis? thanks you so much x

Ovarian cancer is a disease in which malignant cells are found in an ovary. There are three types of ovarian tumors, named for the tissue in which they are found:

epithelial cell - cells that cover the surface of the ovary
(Most of these tumors are benign. However, epithelial ovarian cancer accounts for 85 to 90 percent of ovarian cancer cases)

germ cell - cells that form the eggs in the ovary

stromal cell - cells that form the ovary and produce female hormones

The cause of ovarian cancer is unknown, but there are certain risk factors that indicate an increase in a woman's chance of developing ovarian cancer.

The following have been suggested as risk factors for ovarian cancer:

+ starting monthly periods early - before the age of 12
late menopause
+ long-term estrogen replacement therapy
+ infertility
+ having a first child after the age of 30
+ history of breast cancer
+ family history
+ fertility drugs

The following are the most common symptoms of ovarian cancer. However, each individual may experience symptoms differently. Symptoms may include:

general discomfort in the lower abdomen, including any/all of the following:
- feeling swollen or bloated
- a loss of appetite or a feeling of fullness - even after a light meal
- gas, indigestion, and nausea

+ weight loss

+ diarrhea or constipation, or frequent urination caused by the growing tumor, which may press on nearby organs, such as the bowel or bladder

+ bleeding from the vagina
+ build up of fluid around the lungs, which may cause shortness of breath.

In many cases, symptoms may be so vague that they are easily ignored. The symptoms of ovarian cancer may resemble other conditions or medical problems. Consult a physician for diagnosis.

Diagnosis includes a medical history and physical exam, including a pelvic exam to feel the vagina, rectum, and lower abdomen for masses or growths. A Pap test may be requested as part of the pelvic exam. The physician may also order other tests, including:

+ ultrasound - an imaging technique that uses sound waves to produce an image on a monitor of the abdominal organs, such as the uterus, liver, and kidneys.

+ computed tomography (CT or CAT scan) - a non-invasive procedure that takes cross-sectional images of the brain or other internal organs; to detect any abnormalities that may not show up on an ordinary x-ray. The CT scan may indicate enlarged lymph nodes - a possible sign of a spreading cancer or of an infection.

+ lower gastrointestinal (GI) series - x-rays of the colon and rectum using a contrast dye called barium.

+ intravenous pyelogram (IVP) - x-ray of the kidneys and ureters, taken after the injection of a dye.

+ blood test - to measure a substance in the blood called CA-125 - a tumor marker.

+ biopsy - removal of sample of tissue via a hollow needle or scalpel.

Ovarian cancer may be treated with surgery, chemotherapy, radiation therapy, or a combination of these, called adjuvant therapy.

Good luck - Happy x'mas

I worked with a woman who went for her yearly pap in Oct. and all was clear. By mid Nov she started to have swelling in her abdomen and diarrhea. This mostly came after she ate and would need to undo the button on her pants (slim woman) and she was also in her early 60's.
I'm sure there are many different or none at all symptoms that people do or don't go through.

http://www.medicinenet.com/ovarian_cancer/article.htm

The bad thing about ovarian cancer is that there are no real definite symptoms. Usually by the time you have symptoms, it is too late.
You might have bloating, pelvic pain, non-specific full feeling in the lower abdomen. MOST women don't have any symptoms. There is no bleeding or anything to give you the clue.
Tests include a pelvic ultrasound and a CA125 blood test. If you are concerned, ask for these. You have a good chance at survival if detected early!!!!!!!!!!
Family history is a big predictor. Any women with breast or ovarian cancer in the family? IF so get tested for it.
It can happen any age, peak age is more old, around 50ish, but you can get it in your 20s or 30s, though less common at a young age.
Diagnosis is tricky. You often can't tell on a pelvic exam. If you do have gas, or bloating, nobody is going to think, "oh, it is probably due to ovarian cancer" so it is likely to have a delayed diagnosis. I mean, think of everyone who has bloating. That would be 90% of women. Are you going to test everyone? The tests aren't 100% accurate anyhow. It is a tricky diagnosis, and there IS NO GOOD SCREENING TEST.
I know this is not what you want to hear. It is true. If you have reason to fear ovarian cancer, get the ultrasound and the ca125 test.
(I am a doc)