According to the American Cancer Society, ovarian cancer is the seventh most common cancer (not including skin cancer), with an estimated 22,430 new cases in 2007. According to the National Cancer Institute, the most common type of this malignancy is epithelial ovarian cancer, in which malignant cells form in the tissue that covers the ovary. A rare form of ovarian cancer, in which malignant cells are located in the egg-making cells of an ovary, is a germ cell tumor and affects adolescents and young women. A precancerous condition that affects the ovaries is known as "ovarian low malignant potential tumor".
Cancer.gov: Ovarian Cancer
Provides access to authoritative documents from the National Cancer Institute, including information about treatment, supportive care, and clinical trials.
MedlinePlus: Ovarian Cancer
Developed at the National Library of Medicine specifically for consumers, this site is a portal for both government-sponsored and privately developed health information for the lay public. Look for familiar links to places like the National Institutes of Health.
Cancer.net
Designed especially for cancer patients by the cancer professionals of the American Society of Clinical Oncology, this site is dedicated to providing accurate, reliable, current information about cancer. The symptom management section is especially helpful.
Women's Cancer Source
Web site offers current information about all gynecologic cancers, including ovarian.
Northwestern Memorial Hospital's Health Learning Center has joined forces with the American Cancer Society's Patient Navigator Program to provide assistance to patients and families dealing with cancer. To take advantage of this unique service, provided by a licensed clinical social worker, call 312-926-4282.
