A glossary of terms covering all aspects of breast and ovarian cancer.
O
| Term | Definition |
|---|---|
| Occupational therapist |
A health professional who provides practical support to help overcome physical problems or barriers at home or work. Some occupational therapists are qualified to provide specific treatments such as lymphoedema massage |
| Oestradiol |
Another name for oestrogen |
| Oestrogen |
A type of female hormone produced by the ovaries |
| Omentectomy |
Surgery to remove part or all of the omentum |
| Omentum |
A fold of tissue that surrounds the stomach and other organs in the abdomen |
| Oncologist |
A doctor who specialises in treating cancer |
| Oncology nurse |
A nurse who specialises in the care of people with cancer |
| Oophorectomy |
Removal of the ovaries by surgery |
| Optimal cytoreduction |
Surgery to remove ovarian cancer in which less than 1cm of tumour remains at the end of surgery and minimal adhesions in the abdomen |
| Oral chemotherapy |
Chemotherapy given by mouth (in tablet form) |
| Orchitis |
An infection of the testicles that may be associated with an increase in the risk of breast cancer in men |
| Osteoporosis |
Thinning of the bones; can increase the risk of fracture |
| Ovaries |
Small organs which lie next to the uterus (womb) and produce hormones and eggs |
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Patron: Her Excellency Ms Quentin Bryce AC, Governor-General of the Commonwealth of Australia