Nafisa Ali Sodhi's Courageous Battle and the Silent Threat of Ovarian Cancer

Veteran actress Nafisa Ali Sodhi, a symbol of resilience and grace, has once again embarked on a challenging journey, sharing her brave battle against ovarian cancer. Following a recent relapse, the actress has begun a new cycle of chemotherapy, a testament to her unwavering spirit in the face of adversity.

Her public updates, often accompanied by messages of hope and gratitude for her medical team, have brought a crucial spotlight onto a disease notoriously difficult to detect early: ovarian cancer.

Ovarian cancer is often dubbed the 'silent killer' because its initial symptoms are typically vague, easily dismissed, or mistaken for less serious ailments like digestive issues or menopausal changes.

This insidious nature means that by the time many women are diagnosed, the cancer has often advanced to later stages, making treatment more challenging and prognosis less favorable.

Dr. Anupama Rajan, a Senior Consultant in Gynaecology and Obstetrics, sheds light on why early detection remains such a formidable obstacle.

"Unlike cervical cancer, which has screening tests like Pap smears, there's no routine, effective screening test for ovarian cancer for the general population," she explains. "The symptoms are often non-specific – things like bloating, abdominal discomfort, feeling full quickly after eating, or changes in bowel or bladder habits.

These can easily be attributed to everyday issues, leading to significant delays in diagnosis."

The key, Dr. Rajan emphasizes, lies in persistent symptoms. If a woman experiences these symptoms consistently for more than a few weeks, it's crucial to consult a doctor. "When symptoms are vague but persistent, especially if they are new and unusual for you, that's when you should seek medical advice and specifically ask about ovarian cancer, particularly if there's a family history," she advises.

Risk factors also play a significant role.

Women with a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, particularly those with BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations, are at a higher risk. Other factors include increasing age, obesity, never having been pregnant, and certain fertility treatments. Conversely, factors like oral contraceptive use, multiple pregnancies, and breastfeeding are associated with a reduced risk.

While screening for high-risk individuals might involve regular pelvic exams, transvaginal ultrasounds, and CA-125 blood tests, these are not recommended for the general population due to their high false-positive rates.

The focus for all women should be on symptom awareness and prompt medical consultation. Nafisa Ali Sodhi's openness about her ongoing fight not only highlights her personal strength but also serves as a poignant reminder for all women to listen to their bodies and advocate for their health, potentially saving lives through earlier diagnosis and intervention.