February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
Ovarian Cancer is the most underfunded and the deadliest female cancer in Australia.
Each year in Australia, over 1500 women will be diagnosed with ovarian cancer and over 1000 will die from the disease. There is no effective screening program for ovarian cancer, so the best way of detecting the disease is to know the signs and symptoms.
In Australia, the overall five year survival rate for women diagnosed with ovarian cancer is 46%. In comparison, the overall five year survival rate for women diagnosed with breast cancer is 91%.
The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be vague and similar to other medical conditions. It’s important to see your GP if you experience any of these symptoms, especially if they are unusual for you or persistent.
What do you do if you experience these symptoms?
It is important to remember all the symptoms mentioned here can be caused by other, less serious medical conditions. However, if you have any of them, you should see your doctor, particularly if the symptoms are persistent and troublesome. They will be able to examine you and if necessary, do further tests to find the cause of your problems.
If you would like more information, the Ovarian Cancer Australia Helpline is available 9am-5pm Monday to Friday. To speak with an ovarian cancer nurse please call 1300 660 334 or email: support@ovariancancer.net.au