‘Devastating toll’ on cancer patients

A Sunderland MP is highlighting a new report about the impact of the coronavirus pandemic on ovarian cancer.

Sharon Hodgson, who represents Washington and Sunderland West and is Chair of the All-Party Parliamentary Group (APPG) on ovarian cancer, says she is‘extremelyworried’ by the findings.

She wants to draw attention to thethedevastating toll of COVID-19 on womenwithovarian cancer.

The report by Target Ovarian Cancer shows how diagnosis has been delayed and how treatment has changed and, in some cases, been suspended.

Support for women with ovarian cancer has also been disrupted at a time when many were facing the challenges of shielding.

Mrs Hodgson said: “As ChairoftheAPPGonovarian cancer, I am extremely worried by these findings.

"Our group recently held a virtual meeting where we heard from a woman with ovarian cancer, who spoke about her difficult experiences during the pandemic.

“It is vital that as the NHS recovers, plans are put in place for the complete restoration of treatment, diagnostic, and support services – alongside awareness campaigns to encourage women to contacttheirGPsifthey experience symptoms.

"I urge the Government to consider this report and ensure they are doing everything they can to support womenwithovariancancer.”

Target Ovarian Cancer is callingforadiagnosticrecovery plan, which includes an awareness campaign and a shorter diagnostic pathway.

Around 7,400 women are diagnosed every year.