How to spot signs of ovarian cancer

WOMEN in the Humber region are being urged to look out for signs of ovarian cancer...

March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and health bosses in the region want to make people aware of the symptoms of the condition.

The early symptoms to look out for are pain in the pelvis and lower stomach, persistent bloating and difficulty eating.

Regional director for public health at NHS Yorkshire and the Humber, Paul Johnstone, said: "When it comes to cancer of any kind the earlier it is detected the better chance the patient has of making a full recovery.

"The symptoms of ovarian cancer can be difficult to recognise, particularly in the early stages of the disease. They are often the same as the symptoms of other, less serious, conditions, such as irritable bowel syndrome or pre-menstrual syndrome. If you feel that there is something wrong you should visit your GP as soon as possible. Research into ovarian cancer has found that the condition may be linked to being overweight or obese. Losing weight through exercise, and having a balanced diet, may help to lower your risk of ovarian cancer."

Cancer of the ovary affects over 6,500 women in the UK each year. It is the fifth most common cancer among women after breast cancer, bowel cancer, lung cancer and cancer of the uterus (womb).

Ovarian cancer is most common in women who have had the menopause, usually over the age of 45, but it can affect women of any age.

National organisation Ovarian Cancer Action is supporting the awareness month – and is urging people to get involved.

A spokesperson said: "Ovarian cancer used to be called the silent killer, even in medical text books, with most women not being diagnosed until the cancer had spread.

"But there is now growing scientific evidence that the frequency and combination of particular symptoms could alert women and their doctors to the possibility of ovarian cancer, even when it is in the early stages, when survival rates are much higher.

"Diagnosis can be difficult because symptoms are often similar to those caused by more common, less serious conditions.

"If you have any of the following symptoms, it is unlikely that they are caused by a serious problem, but it is important that you discuss them with your doctor and ask if they have considered ovarian cancer.

"In particular, you should ask your GP whether ovarian cancer should be considered if you experience any of these three symptoms on most days: persistent pelvic and stomach pain; increased abdominal size/persistent bloating (not bloating that comes and goes); and difficulty eating and feeling full quickly.

"Occasionally, other symptoms such as urinary symptoms, changes in bowel habit, extreme fatigue or back pain may also be experienced on their own or at the same time as those listed above."

To find out more about ovarian cancer and the awareness month, visit www.ovarian.org.uk