Human Impact: Dr. LeBlanc Highlights Ovarian Cancer Awareness, Symptoms, and Support on Freedom 106.5 FM

8/18/2026
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Overview

During a scheduled conversation on Freedom 106.5 FM’s “Human Impact” program, the show host welcomed Dr. LeBlanc, a specialist with the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society, to discuss ovarian cancer in the context of World Ovarian Cancer Day. Dr. LeBlanc emphasized that ovarian cancer ranks among the top ten gynecological cancers affecting women in Trinidad and Tobago and noted a rising trend in detection rates.

Signs and Symptoms

Dr. LeBlanc listed a comprehensive set of warning signs that women should monitor:

  • Inter-menstrual spotting or heavy bleeding
  • Persistent heaviness or pain in the lower abdomen
  • Painful intercourse (dyspareunia) or post-coital spotting
  • Unexplained weight loss and fatigue
  • Lower-back pain and urinary-tract symptoms without clear cause
  • Menstrual irregularities, including more frequent, missed, or skipped periods

She cautioned that these symptoms do not definitively indicate ovarian cancer but warrant medical evaluation.

Screening and Diagnostic Work-up

The doctor clarified that there is no approved population-based screening test for ovarian cancer. Instead, diagnostic work-up may involve:

  • Detailed physical examination
  • Pelvic and abdominal ultrasound
  • CT scan of chest, abdomen, and pelvis, and optionally MRI
  • Blood tests for tumor markers such as CA-125, CEA, CA-155, and CA-99 (used for monitoring, not screening)

Biopsy decisions are based on imaging characteristics and marker levels.

Staging and Treatment Options

Staging follows a scale from 0 to IV, reflecting tumor size, local spread, lymph-node involvement, and distant metastasis. Dr. LeBlanc explained:

  • Stage 0-I: Tumor confined to ovaries; may be treated with total hysterectomy and bilateral oophorectomy, possibly followed by radiation or chemotherapy, often leading to remission.
  • Stage II-III: Local spread to pelvic structures or lymph nodes; treatment includes surgery plus systemic therapy.
  • Stage IV: Distant spread; management focuses on palliation and disease control.

She noted that staging criteria can vary between gynecologic oncology societies.

Fertility Preservation

For women of reproductive age, Dr. LeBlanc outlined options to protect fertility:

  • Oocyte retrieval and cryopreservation before oophorectomy
  • Creation and freezing of embryos if a partner is present
  • Coordination with fertility specialists to discuss timing of treatment and future IVF possibilities

She urged patients to raise this issue early with their oncology team.

Lifestyle Factors and Prevention

While acknowledging that most cancers have lifestyle components, Dr. LeBlanc stated no single food causes ovarian cancer. She highlighted known risk contributors:

  • Excessive alcohol consumption
  • Processed-food diets
  • Sedentary lifestyle

She encouraged regular health check-ups and not attributing new symptoms solely to menopause.

Genetics and Prophylactic Measures

Genetic testing can identify women at heightened risk. Dr. LeBlanc explained that certain gene mutations may prompt discussions about prophylactic surgeries—such as risk-reducing hysterectomy or oophorectomy—to lower future cancer chances.

Self-Care and Community Support

Self-care, according to Dr. LeBlanc, encompasses:

  • Routine screenings for cancers that have validated tests (e.g., breast, cervical)
  • Maintaining a balanced diet, regular exercise, and limiting alcohol and tobacco
  • Mental-health strategies, stress-coping mechanisms, and seeking support networks

She highlighted the role of the Trinidad and Tobago Cancer Society in providing education, counseling, and resources. The Society can be reached via:

  • Website: www.cancer.tt (donation portal “Tree of Life”)
  • Phone: 280-4453 (project representatives)
  • Social media: Instagram, Facebook, TikTok

Volunteers and donors are welcomed to assist in expanding equitable access to screening and treatment across the nation.

Conclusion

The interview underscored the importance of awareness, early detection, and holistic care for ovarian cancer patients in Trinidad and Tobago. Dr. LeBlanc’s insights provided listeners with actionable information on symptoms, diagnostic pathways, treatment options, fertility preservation, and avenues for community support.