By the way . . . we need to talk about ovarian cancer

MARCH is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and no matter what age or whether you have children or not, as long as you have ovaries you have risk. It is the fifth most common cancer in women but probably the one we know least about. Research tells us that 90% of women diagnosed didn’t know the symptoms of the disease before they got their diagnosis. We also know that a GP sees only one case on average every five years.

One of the most common symptoms of the disease is bloating. While we all suffer from a bit of bloat now and again, however persistent symptoms are worrisome as are any symptoms of swelling in the abdomen. Bloating that comes and goes is unlikely to be serious. When asked, most women say they would change their diets or take probiotics rather than see a GP about bloating. Many self-diagnose with irritable bowel syndrome.

While this diagnosis is highly plausible in your 20s and 30s, a diagnosis out of the blue in your 40s or 50s is far less likely. So you can see how ovarian cancer gets missed. The other misconceptions are that the cervical smear checks the health of the ovaries, but it doesn’t. A normal smear does not mean normal ovaries.

In addition, many women believe ovarian cancer is hereditary, when in fact 90% of cases are sporadic. If you are worried, don’t delay, secure an appointment with your GP. Bring a symptom diary if you have one. If you’re concerned, don’t be afraid to ask the GP if they have considered the diagnosis. Make sure you have a concise summary of your symptoms and be prepared for a possible internal examination. Mention any other symptoms like fatigue, weight loss, back ache or change in your bowel habit, as this too may be relevant.

If your GP is concerned about your symptoms your blood will be taken to check the level CA125 (a marker for ovary activity). You will also be referred for an ultrasound scan to check the health of your ovaries. Early diagnosis and survival rates are poor, and that’s why we need to pay more attention to this deadly disease.