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Gynecologic oncologist Dr. Dwight Im

Mercy Gynecologic Oncologist Dr. Dwight Im Discusses The Genetic Link To Ovarian Cancer On WBAL-TV11's "Woman's Doctor"

The genetic link to ovarian cancer is much greater than once thought. Ovarian cancer is a tough disease to diagnose and tough for doctors and women to beat because it's often found after it has spread to other areas.

A new study found that some newly discovered genes may help predict a woman's risk against the disease.

"I think we're beginning to learn that ... it actually comes down to genes, genes, genes," said Dr. Dwight Im of Mercy Medical Center's Gynecologic Oncology Center.

According to Dr. Im, the pros and cons of genetic testing need to be considered.

"From a medical standpoint, it makes sense because it gives you more options," he explained. "'What am I going to do with my ovaries? What about childbearing? Do I have children now, as opposed to five years later?'"

Jo Jones was first diagnosed with ovarian cancer in 2006. She said she'd been feeling tired and not well and went to see a gastroenterologist about reflux.

"He said, 'Do you still have your ovaries?' I thought, 'Uh-oh.' He sent me for a transvaginal sonogram," she said.

Jones said she had no family history that she knew of for ovarian cancer.

Jones' 4-year-old odyssey has included surgery and many rounds of chemotherapy, which she meticulously documents. She said she's stable, still works full time and has a life goal.

"My grandson is 4 and my granddaughter is 17 months. What I'm trying to do is live long enough so they will remember their grandma," she said.

Jones said she knows she's at high risk but doesn't want prophylactic removal of her ovaries and uterus.

Dr. Im noted that he follows up with patients who have had a transvaginal sonogram and a CA 125 blood test every six months. He said it's the best option they currently have.

To view WBAL's "Woman's Doctor" segment with Dr. Im and to see additional footage of Dr. Im's interview, click this link: http://www.wbaltv.com/womansdoctor/25504575/detail.html