Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month

February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month so we asked Mel Grady, Day Chemotherapy and Infusional Centre Manager at Norwest Private Hospital what we need to know about Ovarian Cancer.

Ovarian Cancer is the eighth most common cancer affecting women in Australia, with approximately 1400 new cases diagnosed each year.

What are the symptoms?

The symptoms of ovarian cancer are vague and can often be attributed to other ailments regularly experienced by women. That’s why a large proportion of ovarian cancers are diagnosed in the late stages.  Symptoms may include:

• Abdominal bloating
• Feeling full quickly
• Frequent urination
• Back or abdominal pain
• Changes in bowel habits
• Changes to menstruation
• Fatigue
• Weight loss
• Pain during intercourse

Is there screening for ovarian cancer?

There is no routine screening for ovarian cancer, although certain factors are thought to pose an increased risk including: being over 50 years of age, a family history of ovarian, breast or bowel cancer, early onset of menstruation, late menopause, women who have not had children before the age of 35 and certain fertility treatments.

How is ovarian cancer diagnosed?

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer can be made through pelvic examination, ultrasound and blood tests and treatment may include surgery, radiotherapy or chemotherapy – all of which are offered at Norwest, including radiotherapy later in 2022.

Go to these links to learn more:

https://www.cancer.org.au/cancer-information/types-of-cancer/ovarian-cancer

https://www.ovariancancer.net.au/page/134/signs-and-symptoms