It is natural that patients want to know their prognosis. The survival rate for ovarian cancer is usually expressed in terms of median survival, which refers to the length of time that half of the patients in a large group will survive. Thus, it naturally follows that patients may experience better or worse outcomes than the median suggests.
While it is impossible to predict exactly what will happen in any individual case, there are numerous factors that significantly influence a patient’s outcome. Unfortunately, there is no good screening method available for ovarian cancer and it is often not possible to diagnose in an early stage. The accurate diagnosis, optimal surgery and state-of-the-art individualized treatment can have a large impact on prognosis.
The survival rate for ovarian cancer is usually expressed in terms of median survival, which refers to the length of time that half of the patients in a large group will survive. Thus, it naturally follows that many patients experience much better outcomes than the median suggests.
Some of the key factors that medical experts believe can improve the survival rate of an ovarian cancer patient include:
- The type of ovarian cancer
- The best surgery during the first treatment after diagnosis
- An individualized treatment plan, as every case is unique
- A patient’s general health
- How well the cancer responds to treatment
- Access to expertise in ovarian cancer
Moffitt Cancer Center is the only National Cancer Institute-designated Comprehensive Cancer Center based in Florida. Having our multispecialty team of experts involved at the time of initial diagnosis, performing the surgery and formulating the treatment plan can have the biggest impact on the patient’s prognosis. Our dedicated efforts have resulted in improved quality of life for our patients. Our patients have access to the very latest in treatment options as well as innovative clinical trials, and our ovarian cancer team provides supportive, multispecialty care in a single, convenient location.
Medically reviewed by Robert Wenham, MD, Chair, Gynecologic Oncology Program
If you have questions about the ovarian cancer survival rate and how it applies to your individual circumstances, you can consult with a physician at Moffitt without a referral. Please contact us at 1-888-663-3488 or complete our online form to schedule an appointment. In some cases, a virtual visit may be available; our team will help to determine if this may be appropriate.
