This March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness month. Ovarian cancer is an abnormal and uncontrolled growth of cells that starts in the ovaries.
Health on Female First
It’s the fifth most common cancer in women and around 6,700 women in the UK are diagnosed with Ovarian Cancer every year.
Many women don’t have any symptoms or only have vague symptoms in the early stages of ovarian cancer, but there are signs to look out for and women are urged to be vigilant for the following:
- stomach pain or pain in your pelvis
- a persistent bloated feeling
- feeling full quickly and losing your appetite
These symptoms can occur in other conditions as well and are not necessarily a sign of cancer, but a quick trip to a GP is encouraged if your symptoms are persistent.
Dr Annabel Bentley, Medical Director, Bupa Health and Wellbeing says: “Most women may experience these symptoms from time to time, especially throughout certain times of the month, but if they occur persistently then you should go and see your GP. Only six in ten people say they visit a doctor if they are concerned about their health. This is a worry because if people are genuinely concerned then they will not be wasting their GP’s time. It may turn out to be nothing, but seeing your doctor can help you get peace of mind, even if symptoms seem insignificant. And if it is ovarian cancer, the earlier you are diagnosed, the better the outlook.”
Other possible symptoms include:
- unexplained weight loss
- swelling of your abdomen
- changes in bowel or bladder habits – constipation, excess wind, diarrhoea or needing to pass urine more often
- back pain
- extreme tiredness
- vaginal bleeding that isn’t your period
These symptoms aren't always caused by ovarian cancer but if you have them, or you’re in any doubt, see your GP.
Prevention of ovarian cancer
You may be able to reduce your risk of developing ovarian cancer by making changes to your lifestyle, such as stopping smoking and eating a healthy, balanced diet.
Getting enough vitamin D may reduce your risk of developing a number of cancers, including ovarian cancer – although more research needs to be done to be certain.
Common questions answered
Q: I’ve heard that using talcum powder causes ovarian cancer. Is this true?
A: It’s possible that talcum powder may increase your risk of getting ovarian cancer but at present the research is inconclusive. More research is needed to prove whether use of talc is a risk factor or not.
Q: Why are women who take the combined contraceptive pill or have children less likely to develop ovarian cancer?
A: Doctors believe that ovarian cancer is related to the number of times you ovulate (release one or more eggs from one of your ovaries) in your life. You ovulate during each menstrual cycle, several days before your period. The combined contraceptive pill prevents ovulation, so the fewer ovulation cycles you have, the lower your risk of ovarian cancer.
Q: Are there any ovarian cancer screening programmes I can attend?
A: No, there isn't a national ovarian cancer screening programme because tests to spot early ovarian cancer cells aren't effective enough yet. But you can be referred to a local genetics service (also known as a family cancer clinic) for screening if you're considered to be at high risk based on your family history.
Q: When/How am I considered high risk?
A: If you have two relatives from the same side of your family who were diagnosed with ovarian cancer or breast cancer under the age of 50, you may be considered high risk. Your GP can refer you to a local genetics service where your risk will be assessed and you will be given information and advice.
For more information visit www.bupa.co.uk/individuals/health-information/directory/o/ovarian-cancer
Tagged in Ovarian Cancer Women's Health