Ovarian Cancer Awareness: Advancing Treatment & Awareness with Dr. Benjamin

Ovarian Cancer Awareness: Advancing Treatment & Awareness with Dr. Benjamin.

May 8th is World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day, a time to raise awareness, encourage early detection, and highlight the latest advancements in treatment. Ovarian cancer can be difficult to detect in its early stages, making education, symptom awareness, and access to specialized care more important than ever.

Recognizing the Symptoms

Ovarian cancer symptoms are often subtle and may include:

• Bloating or abdominal swelling
• Pelvic or abdominal pain
• Difficulty eating or feeling full quickly
• Changes in urinary habits

“Ovarian cancer doesn’t always present with obvious symptoms,” says Dr. Benjamin. “That’s why it’s so important for women to pay attention to persistent changes in their bodies and seek evaluation when something doesn’t feel right.”

According to the American Cancer Society, early-stage ovarian cancer is more treatable, yet many cases are diagnosed later due to vague symptoms.

Treatment Options & Innovations

Treatment for ovarian cancer often involves a combination of surgery and systemic therapies, depending on the stage and type of cancer. Common approaches include:

• Surgery: To remove as much of the tumor as possible

• Chemotherapy: Often used after surgery to target remaining cancer cells
• Targeted therapy: Designed to attack specific cancer cell pathways
• Maintenance therapy: To help reduce the risk of recurrence

The National Cancer Institute notes that treatment plans are highly individualized and continue to evolve with ongoing research and clinical advancements.

The Role of Robotic-Assisted Surgery

One of the most significant advancements in gynecologic oncology is the use of robotic-assisted surgery. Dr. Benjamin specializes in minimally invasive procedures using the da Vinci® Surgical System, which allows for enhanced precision, smaller incisions, and often a faster recovery for patients.

“Minimally invasive, robotic-assisted surgery allows us to perform complex procedures with greater precision while helping patients recover more quickly and return to their daily lives sooner,” Dr. Benjamin explains.

With experience performing more than 3,500 complex robotic gynecologic surgeries, Dr. Benjamin also serves as a trainer for surgeons nationwide, helping expand access to these advanced techniques.

A Collaborative, Patient-Focused Approach

Ovarian cancer care often involves a multidisciplinary team, including gynecologic oncologists, medical oncologists, and supportive care specialists. This collaborative approach ensures that each patient receives a comprehensive, personalized treatment plan.

Resources like the Centers for Disease Control and Prevention also emphasize the importance of ongoing follow-up care, symptom management, and survivorship planning as part of the overall treatment journey.

Raising Awareness, Saving Lives

Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is a powerful reminder that knowledge can save lives. Recognizing symptoms, seeking expert care, and understanding treatment options can make a meaningful difference.

At Arizona Center for Cancer Care, we are committed to delivering compassionate, cutting-edge care every step of the way. This May, we encourage you to stay informed, listen to your body, and share this information with others. For more information about ovarian cancer and other gynecologic cancers, please visit: Gynecologic Cancers – Arizona Center for Cancer Care.