September Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month
It is estimated that 1 in 75 women will develop ovarian cancer during her lifetime. September is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month and, as always, we want you to know the facts.
When it comes to cancer there is always some bad news. But even if it seems grim, Women’s Cancer and Surgical Care knows the importance of being as informed as possible. Knowing the signs, symptoms, and risk factors could save your life or the life of a loved one. Take the time to learn during Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
The American Cancer Society estimates that there will be over 22 thousand new cases of ovarian cancer this year. And, sadly, more than half of the women diagnosed will die from it. Early detection and treatment can lead to a 90 percent survival rate. However, the symptoms of ovarian cancer are often subtle and can be easily confused with other ailments. This, combined with the lack of effective early detection tests, make diagnosis difficult. Only about 20 percent of all cases are found early (meaning in stage I or II). If caught in stage III or higher, the survival rate can fall as low as 28 percent. The most common symptoms are:
- Bloating
- Pelvic or abdominal (belly) pain
- Trouble eating or feeling full quickly
- Urinary symptoms such as urgency (always feeling like you have to go) or frequency (having to go often)
Our best advice is to take action, not chances. See your doctor immediately if you experience any changes in regards to the symptoms listed above. Because early detection is perhaps the key component of beating ovarian cancer, any effort toward that is time well spent.
Ovarian cancer does not discriminate. It can strike a woman of any race and at any age. However, we do know that women with certain risk factors may have a greater chance of developing ovarian cancer. These can include:
- Family history of breast or ovarian cancer
- Personal history of cancer
- Women over the age of 55
- Women who were never pregnant
- Women on menopausal hormone replacement therapy
If you or someone you know is at a heightened risk, it is even more important for you to take quick action if symptoms develop.
Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month is the perfect time to check in with yourself, friends and family to make sure everyone knows that facts. Please contact Women’s Cancer and Surgical Care if you have any questions as we continue to be your partner in the fight against cancer.