Peritoneal Cancer

Peritoneal cancer is a disease that starts in the peritoneal cavity. The disease is often grouped with gynecologic cancers because it forms in the same type of tissue as these cancers and is often treated the same way.

At Baptist Health Herbert Wertheim Cancer Institute, we combine medical expertise with compassionate care to treat peritoneal cancer. Our goal is to address your needs with cutting-edge technologies and the latest therapies while tending to you in body, mind and spirit.

Our tumor board brings together gynecologic experts from many different fields to discuss your case and develop a treatment plan just for you. We strive to provide you with highly personalized care that effectively treats your disease.

You can rely on us to address your entire journey as a patient, from diagnosis through treatment and life after cancer. Along with the latest medical advances, we offer services including nutritional advice, physical rehabilitation and pain management, and more. We focus on the treatment that’s right for your type of cancer and right for you as an individual.

What is peritoneal cancer?

Peritoneal cancer is a disease in which cancerous (malignant) cells form in the tissue that lines the peritoneal cavity. The peritoneal cavity is the space in the abdomen that contains the uterus, liver, stomach and intestines.

Unfortunately, early symptoms of peritoneal cancer can be vague and often go undetected. Because peritoneal cancer is typically not diagnosed until it’s in the advanced stages, it usually has a poor prognosis. However, physicians and researchers continue to look for better ways to treat the disease and improve survival rates.

Risk Factors for Peritoneal Cancer

The exact causes of peritoneal cancer are unknown. But certain gene mutations that are passed down from parents to children increase your risk. If you have a family history of cancer, especially ovarian cancer, fallopian tube cancer or peritoneal cancer, your physician will work closely with our genetics counselors to help identify whether you are at risk for developing cancer.

Peritoneal Cancer Prevention

There is no guaranteed way to prevent cancer. However, there are ways you can lower your risk for disease.

Because a known risk factor for peritoneal cancer is inherited gene mutations, it is important to talk with your physician about genetic testing if you have a family history of cancer. If our genetic specialists find that you have an inherited gene mutation, we can work together with you to develop a screening and prevention plan.

To lower your risk of cancer:

• Do not use tobacco. Speak with your physician if you need help quitting.
• Exercise regularly.
• Eat a healthy diet that includes plenty of fruits and vegetables, whole grains, lean proteins and low-fat dairy. Talk with your physician or a nutritionist about what you should include in a healthy diet.
• Reach and maintain a healthy weight. Ask your physician what a healthy weight is for you.