Ovarian cancer awareness helps save lives

Health and Social Wellbeing Improvement
Graphic showing woman with cancer and text "be cancer aware"

This Ovarian Cancer Awareness Month [March], the Public Health Agency (PHA) is reminding people to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer.

In Northern Ireland there were 1,019 cases of ovarian cancer (including fallopian tube) diagnosed during 2018 – 2022. This is around 200 cases per year on average. The PHA is urging women to speak to their GP as soon as possible if they notice any of the common symptoms.

Dr Tracy Owen, Deputy Director of Public Health at the PHA, said: “Ovarian cancer is more common in women who have been through the menopause, usually in those over the age of 50, but it can also affect younger women. Unfortunately, many women don’t know the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer and this can lead to delays in them contacting their GP. No matter what age you are, it is so important to be aware of the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer as the earlier it is detected, the easier it can be to treat and the better chance of survival.”

Signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer may include:

  • persistent pelvic or abdominal pain (that’s your tummy and below);
  • increased abdominal size/persistent bloating – not bloating that comes and goes;
  • difficulty eating or feeling full quickly;
  • urinary symptoms (needing to wee more urgently or more often than usual);
  • changes in bowel habits;
  • extreme fatigue (feeling very tired);
  • unexplained weight loss;
  • vaginal bleeding after menopause.

Dr Owen added: “Symptoms of ovarian cancer are frequent – happening more than 12 times a month – persistent, and new, meaning they are not normal for you and may have started in the last year. If you do experience any of these symptoms, it may not be anything serious, but it’s important to contact your GP because finding ovarian cancer early improves the chances of successful treatment.”

Steps you can take to reduce the risk of ovarian cancer:

  • Exercise regularly and maintain a healthy weight. Visit www.ChooseToLiveBetter.com for more information on simple steps on getting active and healthier food choices that can help maintain a healthy weight.
  • Stop smoking. Visit www.StopSmokingNI.info for tips on helping you to quit and information on free local support services available

 

For more information on the signs and symptoms of ovarian cancer see www.BeCancerAwareNI.info