On March 17th Susan Booth of Target Ovarian Cancer, the UK’s leading ovarian cancer charity presented facts, information and stories to Weybridge & District Soroptimists at the monthly meeting. The charity provided leaflets, symptom booklets and information ahead in March and local Soroptimists delivered and popped up the posters in libraries, GP and ante natal clinics and on council boards during the month.
Susan told us the cancer is often missed as the symptoms mimic those of other GI complaints. Recognising the symptoms, recording frequency and consistency to present at GP consultations and their national GP training have improved outcomes despite early prejudice that much could be done. The charity has a helpline for those seeking advice.
The 2 tests used most often (in addition to a complete pelvic exam) to screen for ovarian cancer are transvaginal ultrasound (TVUS) and the CA-125 blood test. TVUS (transvaginal ultrasound) is a test that uses sound waves to look at the uterus, fallopian tubes, and ovaries by putting an ultrasound wand into the vagina. Early cancers of the ovaries often cause no symptoms. Symptoms of ovarian cancer can also be caused by other, less serious conditions. By the time ovarian cancer is considered as a possible cause of these symptoms, it usually has already spread. Also, some types of ovarian cancer can rapidly spread to nearby organs. Prompt attention to symptoms may improve the odds of early diagnosis and successful treatment. If you have symptoms similar to those of ovarian cancer almost daily for more than a few weeks, report them right away to your health care professional.
Weybridge & District Soroptimists were delighted to make a charitable donation to funds to support the charity’s work.
Sources:
https://targetovariancancer.org.uk/
https://www.cancer.org/cancer/ovarian-cancer/detection-diagnosis-staging/signs-and-symptoms.html