Even though Amber's cancer went into remission within three months, it later returned even stronger than the first time (Pic: Instagram/iStock)
Hollywood’s celebrity matchmaker Amber Kelleher-Andrews has passed away following a lengthy battle with ovarian cancer at 56. Amber, who was also a former model and actress, was a well-known relationship consultant on shows like Good Morning America, Today, and 20/20.
Amber, mother to three young children and married for 25 years, was diagnosed with stage 4 ovarian cancer in 2017. According to news reports, even though the cancer went into remission within three months, it later returned even stronger than the first time.
What is ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in your ovaries or fallopian tubes grow and multiply out of control. Doctors say ovaries—part of the female reproductive system—are two round, walnut-sized organs that make eggs during your reproductive years.
Ovarian cancer is more common in Native American and white women than in those who are Black, Hispanic, or Asian.
What causes ovarian cancer?
Ovarian cancer mostly spreads from your pelvis to your lymph nodes, abdomen, intestines, stomach, chest, or liver. According to doctors, even though the exact cause of ovarian cancer is not known as yet, some women have a higher risk of developing the condition due to factors like
- Being over the age of 60 years
- Obesity and being overweight
- A family history of ovarian cancer or having inherited a gene mutation with the BRCA1 or BRCA2
- Never being pregnant or having children later in life
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Endometriosis
- There’s also an increased risk of developing ovarian cancer as you grow older
Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer
Doctors say ovarian cancer develops and spreads throughout your abdomen before it causes any symptoms, making its early detection very difficult. However, some of the signs and symptoms you may notice include:
-
Pelvic or abdominal pain, discomfort, or bloating
- Changes in your eating habits, getting full early, and losing your appetite
- Vaginal discharge or abnormal bleeding, especially if it happens outside of your typical menstrual cycle or after you have gone through menopause
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Bowel changes like diarrhoea or constipation
- An increase in the size of your abdomen
- Peeing more often
- If you develop any of the symptoms listed above, schedule a visit with a doctor immediately
Can you prevent ovarian cancer?
Doctors say while there is no way to prevent ovarian cancer, knowing your biological family history can help you prepare for any heightened risk of developing this deadly illness. If you have a genetic mutation like a BRCA mutation, your doctor may recommend risk-reducing surgery to remove your ovaries and tubes before they become cancerous.
If you are not sure if you have a BRCA or another mutation, you can get genetic testing done.
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