Around 200 new cases of ovarian cancer diagnosed in Armenia annually

Around 200 new cases of ovarian cancer are diagnosed annually in Armenia, making it the third most common gynecological malignancy in the country and the leading cause of death among cancers of the female reproductive system, according to data cited by the Heratsi Research Center.

The findings were released to mark World Ovarian Cancer Day observed annually on May 8, which is commemorated under the global slogan “No Woman Left Behind” this year, emphasizing early detection and equitable access to care.

National statistics show a late-diagnosis burden: approximately 65% of cases in Armenia are identified at advanced stages (III or IV), significantly complicating treatment outcomes. The average patient age is 55.

In 2024, Armenia recorded 218 new cases of ovarian cancer. Of these, 30% occurred among women aged 45–59, while a majority of 58% were diagnosed in patients aged 60 and older. By the end of 2024, a total of 1,726 patients were living with a diagnosed ovarian malignancy.

Globally, ovarian cancer remains the eighth most common cancer among women, with more than 324,000 new cases and 206,000 deaths recorded in 2022, according to international cancer research data. Projections suggest a rising global burden, with annual cases potentially exceeding 500,000 and deaths surpassing 350,000 by 2050.

Health experts continue to warn that ovarian cancer is often detected late due to its nonspecific early symptoms, which may include persistent abdominal bloating, pelvic pain, early satiety, appetite loss and urinary urgency.

Risk factors include advanced age, genetic mutations such as BRCA1 and BRCA2, family history, obesity, endometriosis and postmenopausal hormone replacement therapy. Medical professionals stress the importance of regular gynecological screenings, particularly for high-risk populations.