Untreated Stage 4 Ovarian Cancer: Survival Rate and Treatment Alternatives

Stage 4 ovarian cancer is one of the most advanced forms of ovarian cancer. When untreated, the survival statistics for this stage are stark. Research indicates that the average relative 5-year survival rate for those diagnosed with distantly spread ovarian cancer, which includes Stage 4 ovarian cancer, is approximately 31%. However, these statistics do not provide a clear picture of what happens when patients choose not to undergo any form of treatment.

The Effects of Distant Metastasis

When ovarian cancer has reached Stage 4, it has spread beyond the ovaries to other distant organs such as the lungs, liver, or distant lymph nodes. Without treatment, the primary concern is the progression of the disease, which can lead to significant health deterioration and ultimately, death. Despite the grim statistics, it is crucial to understand that each patient's journey is unique and influenced by various factors, including the patient's overall health, genetic makeup, and the specific characteristics of the cancer.

Life Expectancy Without Treatment

Unfortunately, there is a paucity of comprehensive data on the life expectancy for Stage 4 ovarian cancer patients who do not receive any treatment. This dearth of data stems from the ethical complexities of studying such cases. Doctors and medical professionals cannot track patients who choose to forgo treatment, making it difficult to provide concrete statistics. However, based on anecdotal evidence and the experiences of patients like myself, the prospects without treatment are not encouraging.

As a personal example, in March 2023, I was diagnosed with Stage IV prostate cancer, which had metastasized to bones and lymph nodes. My PSA levels were alarmingly high, at 175, compared to the normal range of 4, and my Gleason score was 3 47, indicating a favorable intermediate grade. Despite the dire prognosis, I am continuing a partial treatment approach, primarily focused on adaptive therapy.

Adaptive Therapy: A Demanding but Promising Alternative

Adaptive therapy, first proposed by researchers at the Moffitt Center in 2009, presents a novel approach to chemotherapy. The essence of this method is to periodically halt treatment, allowing a balance of sensitive and resistant cancer cells to coexist. Doctors classify cancer cells into two categories: sensitive, which are killed by the drugs, and resistant, which survive and grow more rapidly when the sensitive cells are eliminated. Initially, the sensitive cells are in the majority, leading to a significant reduction in cancer. As the resistant cells become dominant, treatment is resumed to re-establish the balance.

In a series of phase I clinical trials involving 20 metastatic prostate cancer patients, the Moffitt Center demonstrated a delay in progression by a factor of two, while reducing drug intake. These positive results have sparked interest in expanding the approach to other types of cancer, including ovarian cancer. It is essential to engage with this approach at the onset of treatment. The key is to stop the treatment when the sensitive cells are in the majority and resume when the resistant cells start growing, thereby delaying the progression of the disease and minimizing drug intake.

Personal Experience with Adaptive Therapy

In June 2023, three months after initiating hormone therapy, my PSA levels had dropped dramatically, from 175 to 0.1, and my testosterone levels were nearly undetectable at 10.7. Despite such a positive outcome, the doctors recommended continuing the treatment, which felt illogical given my current health status. I elected to stop the treatment and have been off it for six months, during which my PSA levels rose to 23. However, a repeat PSMA PET scan confirmed that no new metastases had formed, and my overall health remains strong, aside from a minor tumor that is still responsive to adaptive therapy.

My experience with adaptive therapy has been transformative, allowing me to live a partially drug-free life and regain my physical and mental well-being. Over four months of no treatment, I experienced no significant decline in my health, other than the expected back pain which may indicate the presence of residual cancer. This approach not only prolongs life but also improves quality of life, which is why I am sharing my story and encouraging others to explore this method.

Final Thoughts

The conversation around Stage 4 ovarian cancer often revolves around survival rates and the effectiveness of treatment. However, it is imperative to consider the holistic impact of treatment on a patient's life. While the current statistical data is concerning, advancements like adaptive therapy offer promising alternatives. It is crucial to engage with medical professionals and explore all available options to make informed decisions about one's health.