Ovarian cancer is the fourth most common cancer in women and has the lowest survival rate of all female cancers. Each year nearly a quarter of a million women globally are diagnosed with the disease, with more than 300 women in Ireland affected.
Symptoms can be vague and are often misdiagnosed, as they can be confused with symptoms of other less severe illnesses, particularly gastrointestinal complaints. The majority of patients are only diagnosed in the advanced stages when the disease becomes more difficult to treat.
While there is no reliable screening test for ovarian cancer, there are a number of factors that can increase a woman’s risk of developing the disease. These include age, family history and genetics. Women who have not had children or have never taken the contraceptive pill are also at an increased risk.
Organisations around the world are promoting the “5 Facts Everyone Should Know About Ovarian Cancer” in order to raise awareness. These are:
Fact 1: All women are at risk for ovarian cancer.
Fact 2: Awareness of the early warning signs of the disease may save lives.
Fact 3: Diagnosis at an early stage vastly improves a woman’s chance of survival.
Fact 4: Ovarian cancer is often diagnosed at a late stage.
Fact 5: Many women mistakenly believe a cervical smear test will detect ovarian cancer.
If you have any concerns about ovarian cancer, you should visit your GP to discuss the issue.
