Animations

Module 1: Understanding Ovarian Cancer

This animation explains what ovarian cancer is, where different types of ovarian cancer can start, and which type of ovarian cancer is most common. You can learn about risk factors, symptoms to watch for, and steps to take to reduce your risk. This animation also explains inherited genetic changes that can increase risk for ovarian cancer. Due to the nature of ovarian cancer, every patient may have a different experience. The outlook will depend on many factors, including the stage and type of ovarian cancer and your age and overall health. In general, earlier detection means a better outlook.

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Module 2: Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer

Diagnosing Ovarian Cancer

This animation describes the tests and procedures doctors use to diagnose ovarian cancer. It explains how pelvic examination, transvaginal ultrasound, blood tests, and imaging tests (CT, PET, MRI), are often involved in the lead-up to a diagnosis of ovarian cancer. The only way to confirm a diagnosis of ovarian cancer is by taking a tissue sample (biopsy) and looking at the cells under a microscope. This animation also provides an overview of inherited gene mutations, as well as how ovarian cancer is staged and graded. Knowing your cancer's stage, grade and cell type will help your team plan the best treatment for you.

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Module 3: Treating and Managing Ovarian Cancer

Treating and Managing Ovarian Cancer

This animation provides an overview of how ovarian cancer is treated and managed. Your doctor will work with you to create a customized treatment plan based on the type, location and stage of your cancer, your age, and your overall health. Watch to learn about surgical options, chemotherapy, targeted therapy, hormone therapy, radiation therapy, and immunotherapy. You can also learn about maintenance therapy and clinical trials for ovarian cancer. Most treatments for ovarian cancer have side effects that can affect your body, your emotions, and your mental state. Talk with your healthcare team about any side effects you're having. They can work with you to find ways to relieve and manage your side effects.

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Module 4: Understanding Clinical Trials in Ovarian Cancer

Understanding Clinical Trials in Ovarian Cancer

This animation explains what clinical trials are, how they are conducted, and why they are important for patients with ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer clinical trials are research studies in which people volunteer to find ways to improve health, answer scientific questions, and find better ways to prevent, diagnose or treat ovarian cancer. They help us develop safe and effective medicines for those who need them. This animation also provides an overview of the phases of clinical trials, safety and patient protections, informed consent, who can join a trial, and the potential benefits and risks of participation. You can also learn where to find clinical trials for ovarian cancer. Be sure to ask your doctor about joining a clinical trial for your ovarian cancer. You can ask anytime before or during treatment.

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Module 5: Genetic Mutations and Biomarkers in Ovarian Cancer

Understanding Genetic Mutations and Biomarkers in Ovarian Cancer

This animation provides an overview of genetic mutations and biomarkers in ovarian cancer. Watch to learn about the different types of genetic mutations that can contribute to ovarian cancer and why knowing your risk can support informed decision-making with your doctor. This animation also provides an overview of commonly-inherited cancer syndromes related to ovarian cancer (such as hereditary breast-ovarian cancer syndrome and Lynch syndrome), as well as gene mutations that can develop over time that are not inherited. You can also learn about cancer risk associated with BRCA1 and BRCA2 mutations, genetic testing, and common biomarkers in ovarian cancer. The results of biomarker testing can help doctors select the most effective treatments for ovarian cancer patients. Talk with your doctor to discuss whether biomarker testing should be part of your ovarian cancer care.

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This educational activity has been developed by the National Ovarian Cancer Coalition in collaboration with Mechanisms in Medicine Inc.

This activity is supported by educational grants from:
Alkermes plc, AstraZeneca Pharmaceuticals LP, Clovis Oncology, Inc., Eisai Inc., Foundation Medicine, Inc., Genentech, a Member of the Roche Group, GSK, ImmunoGen, Inc., Merck & Co, Inc., Novartis, Novocure Inc., Pfizer, Inc.

This website is part of the Animated Patient^® series developed by Mechanisms in Medicine Inc., to provide highly visual formats of learning for patients to improve their understanding, make informed decisions, and partner with their healthcare professionals for optimal outcomes.