Ovarian cancer: New ways women can protect themselves

20-Minute Health Talk

Ovarian cancer, often referred to as the "silent killer," has been misunderstood for years. In this episode of 20-Minute Health Talk, Jill Whyte, MD, a leading gynecologic oncologist at Northwell Health, demystifies the subtle symptoms that frequently go unnoticed and emphasizes the critical role of early diagnosis — particularly for those at the highest risk of ovarian cancer. She also explores the latest advances in treatment, from targeted therapies like PARP inhibitors, to minimally invasive surgeries and new preventive strategies. Prophylactic fallopian tube removal has been the standard of care for those at the highest risk but is now being used in certain situations for women at average risk.

During Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month in September, Dr. Whyte implores women everywhere to educate themselves and their family and friends to help reduce the impact of this deadly disease.

Read more about ovarian cancer, including how to detect and treat it.

Chapters:

• 01:15 - Ovarian cancer prevalence, trends
• 01:54 - Ovarian cancer symptoms
• 04:20 - PARP inhibitors and other ovarian cancer treatments
• 06:00 - Ovarian cancer risk factors
• 06:38 - Surgery types
• 08:38 - Strategies to prevent ovarian cancer
• 10:30 - The role of the fallopian tubes
• 14:50 - Catching ovarian cancer early
• 15:17 - Genetic testing
• 16:12 - Northwell's Cancer Institute
• 17:15 - Patient navigators

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