Ovarian cancer: New ways women can protect themselves

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 Watch episodes of 20-Minute Health Talk on YouTube.  For information on our more than 100 medical specialties, visit Northwell.edu and follow us @NorthwellHealth on Facebook, Instagram, X and LinkedIn. Interested in a career at Northwell Health? Visit http://bit.ly/2Z7iHFL and explore our many opportunities.   Facebook –   / northwellhealth   Instagram -   / northwellhealth   X - https://www.x.com/northwellhealth LinkedIn - https://www.linkedin/northwellhealth