Dear Editor,
February is Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, an opportunity to increase awareness and support for the estimated 270 Queensland women who will be diagnosed with the disease this year.
Ovarian cancer is one of the hardest cancers to detect and is the leading cause of death from gynaecological cancers, with fewer than half of all women likely to survive five years after diagnosis.
There are currently no effective screening tests for ovarian cancer, so knowing the symptoms is critical to early detection. Symptoms include increased abdominal size or bloating, unexplained abdominal or pelvic pain, feeling full and/or having difficulty eating, unexplained weight gain or loss, back pain, indigestion, nausea or excessive fatigue.
Ovarian cancer symptoms can be vague and similar to common illnesses, but when these symptoms are new, or have persisted for two weeks or more, it’s important to see a doctor.
This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month, with your support, we will continue to invest in research and support for those affected, including carers and families.
Like all cancers, research is the key to beating this disease.
If you have any questions about ovarian cancer, call Cancer Council Queensland on 13 11 20 or talk to a GP.
Thank you for supporting our work this Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month.
For more information, visit www.cancerqld.org.au.
Professor Jeff Dunn AO, Chief Executive Officer
Cancer Council Queensland
ENDS
For more information or interviews, please contact:
Kim Ryan,
Senior Media Specialist,
Cancer Council Queensland
Phone: (07) 3634 5239
Mobile: 0488 015 702