Raising awareness of ovarian cancer

Ovarian cancer is a type of cancer that begins in the ovaries, which are part of the female reproductive system responsible for producing eggs and hormones such as oestrogen and progesterone.

Symptoms of ovarian cancer can include bloating, pelvic or abdominal pain, difficulty eating or feeling full quickly, and urinary symptoms such as urgency or frequency.

Ovarian cancer is the sixth most common cancer in women in the UK, with approximately 7,500 new cases diagnosed each year.

Risk factors for ovarian cancer include age (most cases occur in postmenopausal women), a family history of ovarian or breast cancer, genetic mutations (BRCA1 and BRCA2), and reproductive history.

Early detection of ovarian cancer is challenging due to nonspecific symptoms and the lack of an effective screening test. It's important to be aware of the symptoms and consult a GP if you experience any persistent changes.

Diagnosis of ovarian cancer usually involves a combination of pelvic examination, ultrasound scans, CA-125 blood tests, and, if needed, a biopsy.

Treatment for ovarian cancer may include surgery to remove the tumour, chemotherapy to kill cancer cells, targeted therapy, and, in some cases, radiotherapy.

BRCA1 and BRCA2 are genes that produce proteins responsible for repairing DNA damage. Mutations in these genes increase the risk of developing ovarian, breast, and other cancers.

Yes, genetic testing is available to identify mutations in BRCA1 and BRCA2 genes, which can help assess an individual's risk for ovarian and breast cancer.

While some risk factors like genetics cannot be changed, maintaining a healthy weight, a balanced diet, and regular physical activity may help reduce the risk of many types of cancer, including ovarian cancer.

Yes, there are several support groups and organisations, such as Target Ovarian Cancer and Ovarian Cancer Action, that offer support, information, and resources for women affected by ovarian cancer.

If you experience persistent or unusual symptoms, it's important to book an appointment with your GP to discuss your concerns and undergo any necessary tests.

The CA-125 blood test measures the level of the CA-125 protein in the blood, which can be elevated in women with ovarian cancer. However, high levels can also be due to other conditions.

A family history of ovarian or breast cancer can increase your risk of developing ovarian cancer, especially if close relatives carry BRCA gene mutations.

For more information, you can visit websites of organisations such as Target Ovarian Cancer, Ovarian Cancer Action, and Cancer Research UK, which provide comprehensive resources and support.