Irish Cancer Society urges women to be aware of signs & symptoms of Ovarian Cancer
World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day takes place on the 8th of May
On World Ovarian Cancer Awareness Day (8th May 2014), the Irish Cancer Society is urging Irish women to be aware of the signs and symptoms of Ovarian Cancer. Each year, 334 women are diagnosed with ovarian cancer diagnosed in Ireland and it accounts for 278 deaths in Ireland annually.
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The Society is looking to generate awareness around the symptoms of ovarian cancer can be mild, vague or persistent. The symptoms can include:
- Bloated feeling
- Persistent swollen abdomen
- Pain or dragging sensation in your lower abdomen or side
- Vague indigestion or nausea
- Poor appetite and feeling full quickly
- Changes in your bowel or bladder habits; for example, constipation or needing to pass water urgently
- Abnormal vaginal discharge or bleeding (rare)
Naomi Fitzgibbon, Cancer Information Services Manager at the Irish Cancer Society said: “It’s important to be aware of your body and get any unusual changes checked out by visiting your GP. The symptoms of ovarian cancer are often silent or not that obvious so it’s important to be aware of what to look out for and to visit your GP without delay if you are worried. Ovarian Cancer can be treated once it is detected early.”
Anyone who is concerned about cancer can contact the Irish Cancer Society’s National Cancer Helpline Freefone on 1800 200 700 to speak to a specialist cancer nurse who can offer information and support.
