How One Star Wellness Client Found Early Diagnosis
Over 22,000 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer this year, a disease that is notorious for being difficult to detect in its early stages. Early detection is key, however, as the cancer is very aggressive once it spreads. The incredible news is, caught in its earliest stages, 90% of women survive at least five years. Helen C. shares her story with us about Star Wellness’ early detection of her ovarian cancer.
A patient of advancing age, Helen C. kept up with annual visits, including her annual PAP exam.
“I remember being concerned that my bad cholesterol may be borderline high but was prepared to share with hubby that my good cholesterol was off the charts and with historically low blood pressure and no daily medications, my doctors tell me I will outlive them all.”
Despite being pleased overall with her results from her doctor’s visit, her pragmatic husband suggested she participate in the advanced wellness screenings offered at his company; there was a discount for the tests, which are not readily available from your doctor, and he believed the couple should take advantage of the information.
At home, following the tests, “I received a call from Star Wellness, suggesting I immediately call my gynecologist.” While she had no symptoms, the additional testing offered by Star Wellness showed an indicator for ovarian cancer was greatly elevated. Following the advice, she scheduled a visit with her gynecologist. Sure enough, the doctor noted something previously missed.
Helen had a tumor on her ovary that had gone undetected. It was the size of a softball. Her CA 125 protein levels were found by Star Wellness’ tests to be elevated in her blood possibly signaling a major problem. The screening her husband had suggested would turn out to be one of the most important tests of Helen’s life. Preparations for surgery began immediately.
“It turns out the CA 125 test caught my cancer so early that we did not have to endure chemotherapy nor radiation. Within 3 weeks from the test results, I was in surgery. My doctor is well known for treating ovarian cancer; and he tells me he shares my story whenever appropriate. Had it not been for the VAP testing offered to employees and spouses of my husband’s employer in 2013, I probably would have … an advanced stage of ovarian cancer, or worse.”
Many women like Helen are not alerted to this type of cancer. Symptoms of ovarian cancer are often confused with less serious, non-cancerous ailments or common digestive issues. Testing for CA 125 is a simple process, but it does have a substantial rate of “false-positives.” Endometriosis, uterine fibroids, even normal menstruation can cause an elevated CA 125 level. But in the cases of advancing age or family history of ovarian cancer, testing should definitely be considered, as it is effective for early detection of cancer.
“Since our good news, a number of our friends have themselves paid for the CA 125 exam. No false positives yet and no cancer. We hope you will continue to offer this as part of your program. I am grateful to my husband, his employer and to Star Wellness for offering this service. Thank you!”
