Doctor explains why detection is so hard – Firstpost

Veteran actor and activist Nafisa Ali Sodhi has revealed she is undergoing a new round of chemotherapy after a relapse of ovarian cancer, a disease she has been battling since 2018. In a candid social media post, the 67-year-old shared that her cancer has returned, but she remains determined to keep fighting.

“I have relapsed. But I am strong and ready for another round of chemotherapy. Please pray for me and my family,” Sodhi wrote, adding that the love and support from her fans continues to give her strength.

Ovarian cancer, often called the “silent killer,” is notorious for being detected late and recurring even after treatment. The five-year survival rate remains low compared to other cancers, largely because early-stage symptoms such as bloating, abdominal discomfort or urinary urgency, are vague and frequently mistaken for routine issues.

Earlier, speaking to Firstpost, Dr. Himani Sharma, Clinical Head & Senior Consultant – Obstetrics & Gynecology at Cocoon Hospital (Jaipur), explained why ovarian cancer is so difficult to catch in its early stages. “There is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer. Many women think pap smears can detect it, but that’s not true — pap smears only screen for cervical cancer, not ovarian. This misconception often delays diagnosis,” she said.

Dr. Sharma added that the absence of effective screening tools means vigilance is critical. “Most ovarian cancers are diagnosed at an advanced stage. Women should be aware of persistent, non-specific symptoms and seek medical advice promptly. For those with a family history, genetic counselling and testing for BRCA mutations can also play a crucial role,” she noted.

Relapse, as in Sodhi’s case, is unfortunately common. According to oncologists, standard treatment involves surgery followed by chemotherapy, but many patients experience recurrence within a few years. Targeted therapies and immunotherapies are emerging options, yet access remains limited in India.

Despite these challenges, doctors stress that outcomes can be improved with awareness and timely intervention. “The key lies in not ignoring symptoms and ensuring women understand that pap smears don’t cover ovarian cancer,” Dr. Sharma emphasised.

As Sodhi begins her new round of treatment, she continues to inspire many by openly sharing her journey. Her message, doctors say, is a reminder of the need for greater awareness and stronger support systems for women battling ovarian cancer.