Why High-Risk Women Are Choosing the ROCA Test for Ovarian Surveillance

ROCA Test for Ovarian Surveillance
High-Risk Women Are Choosing the ROCA Test for Ovarian Surveillance

For high-risk women of ovarian cancer, one can feel like living with a question mark each year. It is challenging to detect the disease in its early stages due to the lack of vague symptoms and reliable screening methods. The fear of silent progress, uncertainty about “when” or “if” to take preventive action, and the pressure to make life-changing decisions such as surgery can be very stressful. An emerging solution designed to support early detection is ovarian cancer surveillance using the ROCA test. Not familiar with it? This blog will walk you through what the ROCA test is and why more high-risk women are choosing it as part of their proactive care plan.

Understanding the Risk

To grasp just how risk varies among different groups, here’s a quick overview of lifetime ovarian cancer risk by population segment:

Group Estimated Lifetime Risk
General Population 1.3%
BRCA1 Mutation Carriers 39–46%
BRCA2 Mutation Carriers 10–27%
Lynch Syndrome Carriers

 

 10–12%

Given the elevated risks in these groups, ovarian cancer surveillance using the ROCA test becomes a critical tool. Traditional tests such as CA-125 or Transvaginal ultrasound alone are not sufficient on their own, which is why more experts now recommend ROCA for high-risk women.

What is the ROCA Test?

The risk of ovarian cancer algorithm testing is a screening tool that uses a woman’s age, menopause condition and serial measurement of CA -125 biomarker to calculate the risk of ovarian cancer. Unlike a standard CA-125 test, which gives the result of a time, the ROCA test sees how the CA-125 level changes over time, which increases its sensitivity and accuracy.

Do you know Ashkenazi Jewish heritage women are more likely to carry BRCA mutations. It is estimated that 1 out of 40 Ashkenazi Jewish women carry a BRCA1 or BRCA2 mutation, while compared to 1 out of 400 in the general population.

Why High-Risk Women Prefer ROCA?

1. Better Initial Identification Rate

In the United Kingdom Collaborative Trial of Ovarian Cancer Screening study, the multimodal screening in which the ROCA test was included, detected 38% ovarian cancer in the early stages (I/II). In contrast, ultrasound-only detection identified only 23% in the same initial stages. The detection of the initial stage greatly improves survival opportunities, the 5 -year survival rate is more than 30% (late phase) to 90% (early stage).

2. Tailored Risk Assessment

Women classified as high-risk frequently encounter varying baseline levels of CA-125, a protein that can indicate the presence of ovarian cancer. This variability renders results from single tests unreliable. In contrast, the Risk of Ovarian Cancer Algorithm (ROCA) test offers a more nuanced and individualized approach to ovarian cancer surveillance by tracking changes in CA-125 levels over time. This method is especially advantageous for women carrying BRCA mutations or other genetic predispositions, as they face a higher likelihood of developing ovarian cancer earlier and with a more aggressive progression. By focusing on these changes, the ROCA test enhances early detection and tailored risk management for those at greatest risk.

3. Reduces Unnecessary Procedures

This innovative test functions independently and offers greater accuracy compared to the CA-125 test, significantly lowering the likelihood of false positive results. By minimizing these inaccuracies, the need for unnecessary follow-up procedures, such as ultrasounds or surgeries, is greatly reduced. This thoughtful approach not only provides women with more reliable results but also helps them steer clear of the physical discomfort, emotional strain, and financial burdens that often accompany aggressive medical interventions that may turn out to be unwarranted. Ultimately, this test prioritizes the well-being and peace of mind of women, allowing them to make more informed decisions about their health..

4. An Alternative to Prophylactic Surgery

For high-risk women who are not yet ready to undergo risk-reducing salpingo-ophorectomy (preventive removal of ovaries and fallopian tubes), this test offers an active and low aggressive option. While surgery remains the most effective risk-less strategy, ROCA acts as a valuable bridge, which allows for close monitoring while preserving fertility and hormonal functions unless the time is correct for surgical intervention.

Who Should Consider the ROCA Test?

Ovarian cancer surveillance using the ROCA (Risk of Ovarian Cancer Algorithm) test is typically recommended for women who meet one or more specific criteria that place them at a higher risk for developing ovarian cancer.

These criteria include:

– Carriers of BRCA1 or BRCA2 Mutations: Women who have inherited mutations in the BRCA1 or BRCA2 genes are at a significantly increased risk of ovarian and breast cancer compared to the general population. Regular screening through the ROCA test can help in early detection.

– Diagnosis of Lynch Syndrome: Women diagnosed with Lynch syndrome, a hereditary condition that increases the risk of several types of cancer, including ovarian cancer, should consider surveillance options like the ROCA test to monitor for potential cancer development.

– Strong Family History of Ovarian or Breast Cancer: Women with a significant family history of ovarian or breast cancer—especially if several relatives have been affected—may have a genetic predisposition to these cancers. The ROCA test can provide valuable insights for early detection.

– Women Over Age 35 Considering Further Options: For women over 35 years old who are not yet prepared to undergo risk-reducing surgery, the ROCA test may be a suitable option to help monitor their ovarian cancer risk.

If you identify with any of these high-risk categories, it is vital to consult with a healthcare professional, such as a physician or a genetic counsellor. They can evaluate your individual situation, discuss your family history and personal health, and determine whether the ROCA test is appropriate for your surveillance plan, ultimately guiding you in making informed decisions about your health.

Final Thoughts

Ovarian cancer continues to be one of the deadliest gynaecological cancers, affecting thousands of women each year. However, advancements in medical technology, such as ovarian cancer surveillance through the Risk of Ovarian Cancer Algorithm (ROCA) test, are transforming how we approach early detection and monitoring of this disease.

The ROCA test analyzes changes in a woman’s levels of certain proteins in the blood that are associated with ovarian cancer risk. This innovative tool, combined with regular screenings and personalized health strategies, empowers women to take a proactive role in their healthcare. By utilizing data-driven approaches and individualized monitoring, women can better understand their risk factors, reduce anxiety associated with uncertainty, and make informed decisions about their health outcomes.

These developments not only provide crucial insights into ovarian cancer risk but also promote a sense of agency among women, ultimately contributing to better health management and improved prognoses in the fight against this serious illness.

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