There are around 7,000 cases of ovarian cancer every year in the UK, with two- thirds diagnosed at a later stage meaning the disease is harder to treat.
Often labelled as a "silent killer", the warning signs usually develop when the disease has reached an advanced stage, which is largely incurable. In fact, 44% of GPs mistakenly believe symptoms only present in the later stages of the disease, explains charity Target Ovarian Cancer.
Dr Frankie Jackson-Spencer said: "Ovarian cancer often goes undiagnosed until it reaches the late stage due to its symptoms being vague and often overlapping with common/less serious conditions."
If diagnosed at the earliest stage, nine in 10 will survive, making symptom awareness front and centre. The NHS advises that feeling bloated and experiencing a swollen tummy are common warning signs of ovarian cancer, but there are several other red flags that could also signal the disease.
The nine known symptoms of ovarian cancer that may strike include a loss of appetite and/or abdominal pain. Meanwhile, others may experience abnormal vaginal bleeding, unexplained tiredness and a frequent urge to urinate.
Possible symptoms of Ovarian cancer
- Bloating
- Feeling full quickly
- Loss of appetite
- Abdominal pain
- Frequent need to urinate
- Abnormal vaginal bleeding
- Unexplained tiredness
- Unexplained weight loss
- Change in bowel habits.
Just one in five UK women can name bloating as one of the main symptoms of the disease, Target Ovarian Cancer have highlighted. Dr Jackson-Spencer said: "Unlike cervical and breast cancer there aren't robust screening tests for ovarian cancer, so it's important to get any symptoms checked out by a doctor.
"Your GP might want to do a blood test, internal examination or refer you for an ultrasound scan. If caught early, ovarian cancer can be less serious, that’s why it's super important to arm yourself with as much knowledge as possible."
What causes ovarian cancer?
According to Dr Jackson-Spencer, there isn't an exact cause of ovarian cancer, but a few factors that increase a person's risk. Those over the age of 65 face a greater risk of developing ovarian cancer, with half of all cases occurring in this age group.
The expert added that family history is another risk factor, saying: "Approximately five to 10 percent of cases of ovarian cancer are thought to be hereditary."
Those who start their period at a younger age or go through menopause later in life are also thought to be at higher risk of ovarian cancer. Dr Jackson-Spencer finished: "The increase in the number of times you ovulate creates more opportunities for cancerous cells to develop."
Patients who have received radiotherapy treatment for cancers, such as bowel cancer, also face a greater risk. For more information or support about ovarian cancer, you can contact Macmillan Cancer Support.
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