No screening test, significant misperceptions, and limited funding are only some of the challenges of ovarian cancer. Ovarian cancer is the most fatal women’s cancer; yet it is often overlooked and under-diagnosed. Symptoms are vague, so most women are diagnosed in late stages when 70% will not survive 5 years. Approximately 1 in 4 Canadian women still believe that a Pap test screens for ovarian cancer; it does not. A Pap test detects problems with the cervix.
SIGNS & SYMPTOMS
AWARENESS: LISTEN TO YOUR BODY
There is no one specific symptom for ovarian cancer. The symptoms are generally vague, non-specific and can be mistakenly attributed to other causes. Just because you have the symptoms, does not mean you have ovarian cancer.
Symptoms that are more severe or frequent than expected and of recent onset warrant further diagnostic investigation because they are more likely to be associated with both benign and malignant ovarian masses.
- University of Washington School of Medicine, 2004
COMMON WARNING SYMPTOMS
- Swelling or bloating of the abdomen
- Pelvic discomfort or heaviness
- Back or abdominal pain
- Fatigue
- Gas, nausea, indigestion
- Change in bowel habits
- Emptying your bladder frequently
- Menstrual irregularities
- Weight loss or weight gain
Other symptoms…
- Mass or “lump” in your pelvis that you can feel
- Inability to eat normally
- Pain with intercourse
- Vaginal bleeding
If you have one or more of these symptoms and these symptoms persist for 3 weeks or longer, see your health practitioner immediately.
From September 23 to 28 during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, a group of ovarian cancer survivors, family members, friends and staff from across Canada will participate in the first Expedition of Hope to climb Mount Kilimanjaro, Africa’s highest peak, in support of Ovarian Cancer Canada. For more information, visit expeditionofhope.com
About Ovarian Cancer Canada
Ovarian Cancer Canada is the only national charity dedicated solely to overcoming ovarian cancer, providing leadership by supporting women and their families living with the disease; raising awareness among the general public and health care professionals; and funding research to develop reliable early detection techniques, improved treatments and, ultimately, a cure. Ovarian Cancer Canada was selected as a Top Pick Charity for 2012 by Charity Intelligence Canada – one of only four health charities chosen, based on the efficiency and effectivess of its programs.
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