Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month: Overview & Key Symptoms:
What is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month?
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is observed every March to raise awareness about early detection, risk factors, and treatment of ovarian cancer. It aims to educate the public and healthcare professionals about the importance of recognizing symptoms early, as
ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage due to vague symptoms.
Overview of Ovarian Cancer:
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovary grow uncontrollably.
It is the 6th most common cancer in women in the UK.
Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates.
Key Risk Factors:
Age (most common in women over 50, post-menopausal)
Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
Endometriosis or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Never having children or late menopause
Symptoms to Look Out For:
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often mistaken for common digestive issues, leading to delayed diagnosis. Seek medical advice if symptoms are, persistent or new (not normal for you)
Bloating – Frequent and persistent
Pelvic or abdominal pain – Unexplained pain or discomfort
Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
Frequent urination – Needing to pee more often
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits – Constipation or diarrhoea
Fatigue or low energy
Abnormal vaginal bleeding – Especially post-menopause
Importance of Early Detection:
Early-stage ovarian cancer has a 90% survival rate, but over 70% of cases are diagnosed late.
Tests to diagnose ovarian cancer include:
CA-125 blood test (can indicate cancer but is not always reliable)
Ultrasound scan (transvaginal or abdominal)
CT/MRI scans & biopsy for confirmation
How to Raise Awareness & Get Involved;
Spread the word – Share symptoms and risk factors with friends and family.
Join awareness events – Fundraisers, walks, or social media campaigns.
Encourage screening – Especially for those with a family history.
References & Further Reading;
NHS Ovarian Cancer Information – NHS.uk
Ovarian Cancer Action UK – ovarian.org.uk
Target Ovarian Cancer – targetovariancancer.org.uk
Cancer Research UK: Ovarian Cancer Symptoms & Treatment – Cancer Research UK
Dr Geranmayeh
ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage due to vague symptoms.
Overview of Ovarian Cancer:
Ovarian cancer occurs when abnormal cells in the ovary grow uncontrollably.
It is the 6th most common cancer in women in the UK.
Early diagnosis significantly improves survival rates.
Key Risk Factors:
Age (most common in women over 50, post-menopausal)
Family history of ovarian or breast cancer
BRCA1 or BRCA2 gene mutations
Endometriosis or hormone replacement therapy (HRT)
Never having children or late menopause
Symptoms to Look Out For:
Ovarian cancer symptoms are often mistaken for common digestive issues, leading to delayed diagnosis. Seek medical advice if symptoms are, persistent or new (not normal for you)
Bloating – Frequent and persistent
Pelvic or abdominal pain – Unexplained pain or discomfort
Feeling full quickly or loss of appetite
Frequent urination – Needing to pee more often
Unexplained weight loss
Changes in bowel habits – Constipation or diarrhoea
Fatigue or low energy
Abnormal vaginal bleeding – Especially post-menopause
Importance of Early Detection:
Early-stage ovarian cancer has a 90% survival rate, but over 70% of cases are diagnosed late.
Tests to diagnose ovarian cancer include:
CA-125 blood test (can indicate cancer but is not always reliable)
Ultrasound scan (transvaginal or abdominal)
CT/MRI scans & biopsy for confirmation
How to Raise Awareness & Get Involved;
Spread the word – Share symptoms and risk factors with friends and family.
Join awareness events – Fundraisers, walks, or social media campaigns.
Encourage screening – Especially for those with a family history.
References & Further Reading;
NHS Ovarian Cancer Information – NHS.uk
Ovarian Cancer Action UK – ovarian.org.uk
Target Ovarian Cancer – targetovariancancer.org.uk
Cancer Research UK: Ovarian Cancer Symptoms & Treatment – Cancer Research UK
Dr Geranmayeh