Ovarian cancer is cancer on or inside the ovaries, and is the ninth most common cancer in women, according to the American Cancer Society. Cancer and its treatments can be mentally, emotionally and physically taxing and stressful, and adequate nutrition can help build and maintain strength and boost the immune system. After treatment for ovarian cancer is over, a healthy diet can help maintain health and reduce the risk of recurrence.
Significance
In the United States in 2010, the American Cancer Society estimates that nearly 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer; that same year, almost 14,000 women will die from the disease. This disease makes up 3 percent of all cancers diagnosed in women, says the American Cancer Society, and the lifetime risk of getting the disease is one in 71. It is typically diagnosed in older women, with approximately half of diagnoses being made in women over the age of 60.
Treatment
Treatment for ovarian cancer varies depending on the individual's overall health, the stage and specific type of the cancer and, if applicable, fertility concerns. Typical treatment for ovarian cancer includes one or more of the following: surgery, chemotherapy and radiation therapy. Other treatment options that may be available include targeted therapies, hormone therapies and clinical trials.
Nutrition During Treatment
Treatment for ovarian cancer can cause numerous nutritional problems. Chemotherapy or radiation may make it hard for patients to have an appetite and can cause stomach pain, constipation and diarrhea; and surgery places increased nutritional demands on the body and may lower appetite because of pain, according to the National Cancer Institute. Eating smaller meals more often that are high in protein and calories can help patients maintain weight and energy and may be tolerated easier than larger meals. If mouth sores or upset stomach are problems, eating foods that are softer and easily digested can be helpful, including mashed potatoes, milkshakes, soft fruits and scrambled eggs, says the National Cancer Institute.
Nutrition Post-Treatment
After treatment for ovarian cancer, nutrition is still important in maintaining optimal health. According to Ginger Muscalli, a registered dietitian at Johns Hopkins, the guidelines from the National Cancer Institute in nutrition for cancer prevention also help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. A diet high in fruits, vegetables and whole grains; fat intake making up less than 30 percent of total caloric intake; minimizing consumption of pickled or cured food; and drinking few or no alcoholic beverages all help reduce the risk of cancer recurrence. Maintaining a healthy weight also reduces health risks, says Muscalli.
Warning
Before adding any nutritional supplements or starting a special diet, checking with the healthcare team can help reduce the risk of any adverse effects or dangers. Some cancer medications do have negative interactions with certain foods, and consulting with the cancer treatment team can help ensure a diet or supplements are safe and will not interfere with treatment or recovery.
References
- American Cancer Society: Ovarian Cancer Statistics
- American Cancer Society: Ovarian Cancer Treatment
- Johns Hopkins Pathology: Promoting Good Nutritional Habits for Ovarian Cancer Patients and Survivors
- National Cancer Institute: Nutrition in Cancer Care
- National Cancer Institute: Nutrition Suggestions for Symptom Relief
