Ovarian cancer: beware the early symptoms

DOCTORS in Warrington are advising women to be aware of the early symptoms of Ovarian Cancer to allow early treatment for the best chance of recovery.
March is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and Warrington doctors want to raise awareness of the symptoms. By monitoring persistent and frequent symptom they can detect any cancer early.
They advise women experiencing any of the symptoms on most days, to seek advice from their GP.
Symptoms include persistent pelvic/stomach pain, increased stomach size, persistent bloating, difficulty eating and feeling full quickly. Other less common symptoms include urinary symptoms, changes in bowel habits, excessive tiredness and back pain.
Women are also advised to tell their GP if there are two or more cases of ovarian or breast cancer in their close family, as ovarian cancer can sometimes run in families. If women have already visited their GP and the symptoms continue or get worse, they should go back and explain.
Nigel Holland, Warrington gynaecological consultant, said: “If ovarian cancer is diagnosed at an early stage the outcome is good. However, because some of the symptoms can be vague and similar to those of more common conditions, it can be difficult to diagnose.
“Most women are not diagnosed until the disease has spread. It’s important to know about the symptoms, so that advice can be sought as early as possible. Early diagnosis can save lives.”
Ovarian cancer is the fifth most common cancer in women but the average GP sees only one case every five years. The risk of ovarian cancer increases with age, particularly after the menopause. Cervical screening tests (smear tests) do not help to detect ovarian cancer.