CA125 Blood Test Hoax

THIS IS VERY IMPORTANT! PASS THIS ALONG TO EVERY WOMAN YOU KNOW! the e-mail begins, followed by a touching story about a woman with ovarian cancer. The writer explains that she is trying to save other women from her same fate - if only she had known earlier about the CA125 blood test to detect ovarian cancer. She tells readers to demand that their gynecologist give them a CA125 blood test as part of their yearly exams and "Don't take 'No' for an answer!"

This and many similar stories are circulating among e-mail users and stirring up misconceptions about the CA125 blood test. While this woman's story, if true, is touching, her information regarding CA125 is incorrect.

"Unfortunately, the CA125 blood test is not the ultimate way to detect ovarian cancer," said Dr. Diane Bodurka, assistant professor in M. D. Anderson's Department of Gynecologic Oncology. "We do not have a fool-proof way to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages. That is something we are working towards."

~~ The above is from CancerWise.org

Kathy's story is an urban hoax. It has been on the Internet since 1998. According to Snopes.com, this statement is false: "The CA-125 blood test is a reliable way to detect ovarian cancer in its early stages, and women should insist upon having one done with each yearly examination."

Love Thyself Series - CA-125 Blood Test Hoax says

"the best screening test for ovarian cancer that we currently have at our disposal, consists of a yearly pelvic exam followed by more extensive testing if any abnormalities are suspected."

CA-125 Blood Test for Ovarian Cancer

Misconceptions About the CA125 Blood Test

Truth or Fiction says The "CA-125" Cancer Screening Test Is The Best Way To Detect Ovarian Cancer-Fiction!
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